Human rights activists have called Prince William’s indecision to skip the World Cup in Qatar because of scheduling conflicts “implausible.” There are currently “no plans” for the Prince of Wales to visit the Middle East in time for England’s November 21 match against Iran.
However, royal sources today stated that if the England squad advances to the final on December 18, the heir, who also serves as President of the Football Association, may attempt to clear his schedule to travel.
Protests have been directed towards the contentious hosts since same-sex relationships are prohibited there and there are bad working conditions for stadium employees during the competition’s build-up.
A busy schedule during the World Cup, according to sources close to William, 40, is what prevented him from attending.
Leading activist Peter Tatchell questioned William’s justifications for his busy schedule when he was stopped by authorities this week while protesting alone in Qatar about the country’s appalling human rights record and treatment of LGBTQ+ citizens.
The proffered justification that Prince William’s decision was based on a scheduling conflict is dubious, he claimed, considering that the dates of the WC have been widely publicized for more than a year.
Qatar forbids same-sex unions because of its strong Islamic laws.
The 70-year-old Mr. Tatchell continued, “The Prince is fully justified, both ethically and legally, to speak out since this is a human rights problem, not a political one.”
A representative for Kensington Palace stated that the prince was unable to travel “because of the busy winter schedule,” but claimed that the heir would “consider” options should England advance to the final as a member of a government delegation.
