Mexico deploys National Guard for World Cup spectators

The 2022 FIFA World Cup begins today in Qatar. Mexico is ensuring its citizens receive the best experience possible while abroad for the tournament.

Mexico’s Foreign Affairs Ministry has dispatched National Guard units to coordinate any logistical, diplomatic, or security issues that Mexican citizens have while in Qatar. Though the stated reason for the decision is that Mexican nationals make up a large portion of attendees, it highlights the anxiety that has surrounded this World Cup.
Qatar has introduced strict guidelines for attendees, including requiring conservative dress, banning alcohol sales, and prohibiting LGBTQIA symbols. Indeed, public concern about how Qatari authorities will enforce laws and guidelines has grown, especially among the LGBTQIA community. The Football Association of Wales has gone as far as attempting to establish “safe zones” where same-sex couples can be safe from crackdowns.
As the World Cup kicks off, criticism of FIFA’s selection of Qatar and Qatar’s handling of issues such as human rights may receive less attention as the pageantry begins to take center stage. However, it’s clear that this World Cup has shed light on the importance of social values in international relations. It seems likely the global community could see further cooperation to elevate issues like LGBTQIA and women’s rights to new levels of importance.