FIFA Warns Qatar Police Not To Arrest Female Rape Victims Under Controversial Sex Laws

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• Nov 25, 2022 | Dhupali Das

FIFA has issued a directive to police officers declaring that any fans who are victims of rape or sexual assault should not be...

Digital Desk: As the FIFA World Cup 2022 has started in Qatar, the Muslim country's controversial sex laws have come into the spotlight once more. FIFA has ordered Qatari officials not to charge or arrest female rape victims, as would usually happen. Reportedly, FIFA has issued a directive to police officers declaring that any fans who are victims of rape or sexual assault should not be charged with having extramarital affairs.

"Law enforcement could only get involved if there is a suspicion of sexual violence or abuse against women. Women will not face any accusations if they report rape or sexual harassment/violence," read a briefing by the FIFA security committee.

Notably, under Qatari law, a victim of rape or sexual assault faces a 7-year jail term and 100 lashes.

Paola Schietekat, a World Cup organizing committee worker, filed a complaint last year alleging sexual assault by a colleague who broke into her apartment in Qatar.

28-year-old Paola from Mexico was charged with an 'extra-marital affair' by the Qatari police, while the accused was acquitted of assault charges.

However, Paola left the country after being advised to marry her claimed attacker in order to save her criminal charges from being brought against her.

FIFA advisory about pregnant women

Additionally, FIFA issued an advisory about pregnant women who might require medical care during the tournament.

"Women will be able to receive medical care including... related to pregnancy or reproductive health, regardless of circumstances and will not face accusations," stated FIFA's briefing.

Notably, pregnant women are usually placed under suspicion if they are not married under Qatar's morality laws.