Qatari Football Player Isn't a UNESCO Ambassador
The Claim
Qatari football player, Almoez Ali is a UNESCO ambassador.
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Emerging story
A claim widely circulating on social media and news websites states that Qatar's National Team’s striker Almoez Ali, has been appointed as national ambassador for the (UNESCO).
The claims indicate that the announcement came after a visit by the Football World Heritage president at UNESCO, Princess Rani Vanouska Modely, during her visit to Qatar earlier this week.
Ali tweeted a picture on his Twitter account of himself signing documents.
He also posted a tweet afterward stating that he is proud of joining this global movement as an ambassador to represent his country Qatar.
Misbar’s Analysis
Misbar's investigation found that Modely is unaffiliated with UNESCO, according to Doha News.
Anna Paolini, UNESCO’s Director for the GCC and Yemen, said, “Ms. Rani is not affiliated to UNESCO in any way,” and therefore Ali could not be a Goodwill Ambassador.
Upon further investigation, it was revealed that Modely is an ambassador delegate for an organization called Football World Heritage.
While some elements of the organization are ambiguous, it appears they had filed an application to UNESCO in order to recognize football as a World Heritage.
According to their website they need to reach every UNESCO ambassador. It also appears that they are continuously trying to get support for their application from players as well as other public figures.
However, the organization is unaffiliated with UNESCO.
Ali later posted that a tweet about his appointment as ambassador is “inaccurate.” He confirmed he received an offer within the framework of the social responsibility of football stars in the "Football World Heritage" and that he merely welcomed the idea of being an ambassador to UNESCO.
In order to become a Goodwill Ambassador a member state is required to approach UNESCO and officially nominate an individual. This official procedure was not carried out in Ali’s case. Given these findings, Misbar's investigation confirms that the claims are fake.
