As Human Rights Watch's director of global initiatives, I lead international outreach and advocacy campaigns, overseeing research, advocacy and communications on sport and human rights, fighting “sportswashing,” and pressing for powerful sports bodies like FIFA and the IOC to
Red Card For FIFA’s Saudi World Cup
FIFA’s choice to award Saudi Arabia the 2034 World Cup raises basic human rights concerns including dire risks to migrant workers’ lives.
Saudi Arabia Hasn’t Earned Women’s Tennis Championships
Why is the flagship event for women's tennis going to Saudi Arabia, where critics are jailed and the male guardianship system denies women and girls basic human rights?
Rights At Risk As Saudi Arabia ‘Sole Bidder’ To Host 2034 World Cup
Soccer global governing body FIFA will still certify the World Cup award at meeting next year— but there is no doubt about the outcome with only one candidate.
Spanish Women’s World Cup Champions Win Again: Time’s Up For Rubiales
Abuse of Spanish Women's World Cup champions in their moment of glory is a harsh reminder FIFA has no systems to protect women and girls from such abuse in the future.
FIFA Must Show The Red Card To Sexual Abuse
Before the last Women's World Cup goal is kicked, FIFA should set up an independent body to report and investigate abuse, protect survivors—and get abusers out of sport.
Women's World Cup Shows Equality Still Has A Long Way To Go
As Women's World Cup kicks off, why are players still fighting for pay?
PGA-Saudi Deal Tees Up Sportswashing
Saudi Arabia's strategy to sportswash its egregious human rights record by taking over pro golf sets the stage for buying many other beloved sporting teams and events.
Saudi Arabia’s Newest Sportswashing Strategy: Sponsorship Of Women’s World Cup
FIFA should not allow Saudi Arabia Tourism to sponsor the 2023 Women's World Cup. The tournament celebrates the global women's game—and it should not be an opportunity to launder the reputation of a government that shamelessly violates women's rights.
Beer And Boycotts: Why FIFA’s Corporate Sponsors Should Back Rights Reforms After World Cup
Brands should worry that the World Cup in Qatar will be remembered for all the wrong reasons: as the most expensive sporting event ever—and the most deadly.