How Qatar uses its wealth to challenge western values

The French have adopted a ‘when in Rome’ approach to the World Cup in Qatar, refraining from virtue-signalling their disapproval of their host’s beliefs. As their captain, Hugo Lloris,  put it last week: ‘When we are in France, when we welcome foreigners, we often want them to follow our rules, to respect our culture, and I will do the same when I go to Qatar, quite simply. I can agree or disagree with their ideas, but I have to show respect.’

Of all western countries, France expects those who settle from different cultures to adhere to Republican values, particularly that of laïcité (secularism). This is in contrast to the multiculturalism of the Anglosphere where the prevalent philosophy is one of cheerful tolerance.  

When a poll revealed in 2016, for instance, that 52 per cent of British Muslims wanted homosexuality to be banned there was a muted response among the commentariat now kicking up such a fuss about Qatar’s homophobia.