Human rights activists called for a boycott of the world Cup in Russia
The Human rights organization Human Rights Watch called for a political boycott of the opening match of the world Cup in Russia. About it reports DW.
“World leaders must send President Putin a signal that while he will not change its policy and take steps to end the atrocities of the Russian and Syrian forces in Syria, they will not sit together with him in the VIP boxes at the opening game,” said Executive Director Kenneth Roth.
Roth added that, taking the championship, Russia achieves respect and seeks to sway the world public opinion. “However, despite the desire of millions to watch the match, suffering civilians of Syria should not be forgotten,” said he.
The case of the poisoning of former GRU officer Sergei Skripal, a few countries announced a partial boycott of the world Cup in Russia. Tournament matches will not attend the British officials and members of the Royal family. The protest was joined by the Icelandic authorities, who refused to come at the world Cup. The President of Poland Andrzej Duda refused to participate in the opening ceremony of the tournament.
The world Cup 2018 will be held in 11 Russian cities from June 14 to July 15.