FIFA’s decision to strip Indonesia of its right to host the Under-20 football World Cup has caused controversy and criticism, with concerns raised about the organisation’s stance on human rights and its endorsement of Israel’s participation in the tournament. The decision came after protests erupted earlier this month in Jakarta, with demonstrators waving the flags of Indonesia and Palestine and calling for Israel to be excluded from the event.

Many Indonesians view Israel as an occupying force that has committed war crimes against Palestinians and therefore see any engagement with Israel as complicity in these crimes. FIFA’s endorsement of Israel’s participation in the tournament has raised moral dilemmas, with critics questioning the organisation’s commitment to promoting fair play and inclusivity in football.

Erick Thohir, the President of the Indonesian football federation, acknowledged that Indonesia is a FIFA member and must abide by its rules, but asked football lovers to remain positive and work towards transforming soccer into a cleaner and higher-achieving sport. Meanwhile, Indonesia’s President Joko Widodo warned against mixing sports and politics, saying that the two should not be intertwined.

FIFA’s perceived reluctance to take a strong stance on the issue of Palestine has raised questions about its commitment to human rights. Critics have accused the organisation of hypocrisy, pointing out its silence and apolitical stance on the Palestine issue while virtue signalling over Russia’s actions in Ukraine. FIFA has yet to announce a new host country for the tournament, which was scheduled to begin on May 20.