Rebecca Harms diplomacy.bgnnews.com

The deputy of the European Parliament from the party of "greens" Rebecca Harms called on politicians and ordinary spectators to boycott the Football World Cup in Russia. She stated this in an interview with Neue Osnabrücker Zeitung, writes DW.com.



According to Harms, Russia is not the country in which it is worth holding such a tournament. The politician noted that Russian President Vladimir Putin "will get too much attention" due to the world championship.



"He is in the rays of glory in the presence of foreign guests and continues to pursue his anti-democratic policies," added Harms and recalled Russia's interference in the affairs of Ukraine and Syria.



She also criticized the attitude in Russia towards the opposition and minorities. Harms called the "exemplary" act of former German President Joachim Gauck, who refused to attend the Winter Olympic Games in Sochi in 2014.



"His example should be followed next year during the World Cup," added Harms.



Also, the politician criticized the International Federation of Football Associations (FIFA), as she ignored Russia's accusations of corruption and doping and did not listen to appeals to move the championship to another country.

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