World Cup ambassador says homosexuality is ‘damage in the mind’ on TV interview
A QATAR World Cup ambassador has sparked outrage by branding homosexuality a “damage of the mind”.
Former Qatari footballer Khalid Salman was accused of “ignorance and prejudice” after yesterday’s homophobic outburst.
Critics say Salman is “typical” of outdated views hiding behind the Gulf State’s multi-billion pound soccer showpiece.
The row comes less than two weeks before the tournament kicks off amid controversy over its anti-LGBQT+ laws and poor human rights record.
Salman made his comments about his nation’s ban on same-sex relationships in a German TV interview.
He said gay people “have to accept our rules here”, adding: “Because it is damage in the mind.”
Human rights campaigner Peter Tatchell said: “This is typical of the ignorance and prejudice towards LGBT+ people among senior Qatari officials. They believe LGBTs are damaged and it is state policy to attempt to ‘cure’ LGBTs in secret conversion therapy centres.”
Mr Tatchell, who carried out a solo protest against the tournament last month by unfurling banners outside Qatar’s national museum, said the policy has a huge impact on gay people.
And Rasha Younes of the LGBT rights program at Human Rights Watch said: “Salman’s suggestion is harmful and unacceptable.”
The row comes after celebrities including former England captain David Beckham and singer Robbie Williams have been criticised for their support of the footballing extravaganza.
Beckham has a £150million deal as an ambassador, while Williams will perform in capital Doha during the finals. Fifa president Gianni Infantino insisted “everyone is welcome regardless of origin, background, religion, gender and sexual orientation”. England captain Harry Kane will wear an anti-discrimination “One Love” rainbow armband.
But England Lioness star Beth Mead has criticised the tournament as “the opposite to what I believe and respect”. Sepp Blatter, the head of Fifa when Qatar was awarded the tournament, called the decision a “mistake”.
He blamed then-Uefa president Michel Platini, recently cleared of corruption with him, for swinging the vote in Qatar’s favour.