Nepal’s Unseen Role in the World Cup

Nepal’s role in the World Cup is more significant than one might think. While the country has never qualified for the tournament, its citizens have played a crucial part in making it happen.

In 2022, thousands of Nepali workers were involved in the construction of stadiums in Qatar, including the Lusail Stadium, where the final match was held. Many of these workers faced harsh conditions and were not paid their due wages.

Meanwhile, in the world of football, a unique system exists where clubs are rewarded for developing young players. This system, known as the ‘solidarity mechanism,’ ensures that clubs that invest time and resources in training players receive a percentage of the transfer fee when the player is sold to another club.

This system has led to a significant amount of money being transferred to smaller clubs and academies around the world. In fact, since 2022, over $400 million has been transferred to more than 7,500 clubs in 120 countries.

This system is similar to a concept proposed by economist Jagdish Bhagwati in 1973, where a ‘brain drain tax’ would be imposed on wealthy countries that benefit from the skills and knowledge of workers from poorer countries.

While this tax has never been implemented, the solidarity mechanism in football serves a similar purpose. It recognizes the value of investing in young players and rewards clubs for their efforts.

In contrast, the treatment of migrant workers in Qatar has been a subject of controversy. Many workers have faced poor working conditions, and some have even lost their lives. FIFA has been criticized for its handling of the situation, and human rights groups have called for greater accountability.

As the world of football continues to evolve, it is essential to recognize the contributions of all those involved, including the often-overlooked migrant workers who have helped build the stadiums and infrastructure that make the World Cup possible.