Lise Klaveness pushes for Fifa reform and worker compensation

Lise Klaveness, president of the Norwegian Football Federation, is advocating for significant Fifa reform and a renewed focus on human rights policies across global football. While she has distanced herself from a potential bid for the Fifa presidency, Klaveness remains confident that the international governing body can be reformed from within.

The Need for Worker Compensation

A central focus of Klaveness's reform agenda is the concept of remedy and financial compensation. She is determined to re-engage Fifa and other major governing bodies on this topic, ensuring that human rights policies translate into tangible support for those affected by football's global events.

The importance of a robust remedy system became starkly clear in the aftermath of the World Cup in Qatar. Families of workers who were injured or lost their lives during the extensive construction and preparation leading up to the tournament were left without financial compensation. This situation unfolded after Fifa directed a legacy fund elsewhere, bypassing the affected workers and their relatives.

A Voice for Change

Despite distancing herself from challenging Gianni Infantino for the Fifa presidency, Klaveness is adamant that the Norwegian Football Federation will not remain silent on these critical issues. She views the federation's role as a catalyst for broader institutional change.

"Of course we cannot probably do everything alone, but we have a voice, we have the right to speak, we have the right to suggest, so let’s see,"

Klaveness said regarding her push for reform. She emphasised the federation's commitment to leading by example in the push for improved human rights policies, adding:

"We will at least try to be a spearhead."

Next Steps for Fifa Reform

Klaveness will continue to use her platform to challenge Fifa's approach to human rights and financial remedies. The ongoing dialogue will test whether the governing body is willing to adjust its policies to provide direct support to families impacted by future tournaments.