In a recent meeting held between Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser and Pakistan’s Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa, the Qatari government reportedly sought Pakistan’s assistance in providing security for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The Qatari authorities acknowledged Pakistan Army’s contributions in fighting terrorism in the country; and it’s effectiveness as an institution. Qatari authorities, therefore, thinks that Pakistan’s armed forces might provide adequate security cover to the global event. The two countries are also going to deepen their cooperation in the areas of cyber security and defence production.
Further strengthening of bilateral ties will serve Pakistan’s interests but the idea of providing troops to secure the FIFA 2022 is problematic at best. The selection of Qatar as the venue for the much-celebrated global sports event has already been marred by numerous controversies surrounding its nomination, construction of the site and ill treatment of labour. Investigations are already underway on all these issues. Sepp Blatter, the former president of the Zurich-based FIFA Committee had to resign in 2015 due to charges of receiving hefty bribes on behalf of the Qatari government.Qatar’s human rights record is unenviable to say the least. Reportedly, the labourers working on construction sites were forced to work without any shifts and have been living in abysmal conditions. Many died due to accidents at the construction sites and some even committed suicide. Investigations by the global media have also alleged that labourers were deprived of their travel documents and their salaries were also withheld unduly. Before Pakistan considers Qatar’s request to provide security assistance or manpower, it should review all such controversies. In any case, Pakistan’s army is a national force, whose professional services are not for hire by foreign governments. The primary objective of a national army is to cater to the country’s security needs and provide assistance to civilian government when necessary.
