https://www.nbcnews.com/nbc-out/out-politics-and-policy/no-kissing-qatar-fears-grow-crackdown-lgbtq-fans-world-cup-rcna54320

More than a million soccer fans from around the world are expected to gather in Qatar for next month’s FIFA World Cup. As the global competition nears, concerns about how the Gulf nation will treat its LGBTQ visitors are rising. Qatar laws are deeply influenced by traditional Islamic morality. In the case of those in the LGBTQ community there is no legal recognition. Hence, acts like cohabitation, and other LGBTQ behavior is a punishable offence with punishments like public stoning remaining on the books in most areas.

Several World Cup teams have spoken out against Qatar’s position, calling for Qatar to decriminalize same-sex relations. In a sign of solidarity with the LGBTQ community — and a breach of FIFA uniform rules — eight of Europe’s soccer teams joined forces last month and announced that their teams would wear armbands emblazoned with rainbow hearts and “1 love” at the international competition.

In a statement a FIFA spokesperson said, “FIFA is confident that all necessary measures will be in place for LGBTIQ+ fans and allies to enjoy the tournament in a welcoming and safe environment, just as for everyone else.”

On Friday, an official from Qatar’s Government Communications Office told NBC News that “fans will be free to express themselves during the World Cup” but will be asked to “respect the local values and culture.”

Assurances by the FIFA and Qatar have done little to ease concerns for LGBTQ fans in attendance as many have been arrested/”asked” to leave the country over protests connected to the World Cup and Qatar showing no signs that it will change any time soon.