ΒιΆΉΤΌΕΔ

The ECU noted ΒιΆΉΤΌΕΔ Sport has not shown the opening ceremony of a World Cup on a mainstream channel since at least 2002. Β The decision by the organisers to change the timing and duration of the opening ceremony also meant it was almost over by the start of the scheduled ΒιΆΉΤΌΕΔ One programme covering the opening match. Β Even if that had not been the case, the question of what to broadcast was a matter of editorial discretion for programme-makers and in the ECU’s view they were entitled to choose not to show the ceremony on ΒιΆΉΤΌΕΔ One and only make it available in full online.

The same consideration applied to the discussion ahead of the opening match. Β Those responsible for the programme’s content were entitled to exercise their editorial judgement and address some of the issues raised by the decision to stage the World Cup in Qatar. Β The decision to hold the competition in Qatar prompted widespread debate including, but certainly not limited to, human rights, working conditions and environmental impact.

The programme reflected the response from FIFA, the Qatari authorities and ambassadors for the tournament and included a lengthy extract from a speech by the Gianni Infantino, the President of FIFA in which he defended Qatar and responded to criticisms. Β The ΒιΆΉΤΌΕΔ’s International Editor, Jeremy Bowen, also gave his assessment. Β The programme met the standards for impartiality in that it gave due weight to the main strands of argument while also recognising the ΒιΆΉΤΌΕΔ says due impartiality β€œdoes not require absolute neutrality on every issue or detachment from fundamental democratic principles”.
Not Upheld