Rights groups have raised serious concerns over the safety of journalists and fans attending the World Cup in the United States, accusing FIFA of permitting a “distinctively dangerous climate of fear” amid President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown.
Human Rights Threats Unaddressed
The Sport & Rights Alliance stated that FIFA has not adequately addressed potential human rights threats as the massive sporting spectacle prepares to kick off next week. Visa restrictions, border enforcement, and policing are among the key concerns.
“FIFA’s weak response to the human rights threats documented by local groups and global civil society organisations means that we are witnessing a distinctively dangerous climate of fear, uncertainty, and repression,” said Andrea Florence, executive director of the coalition of rights groups. “President Donald Trump’s harsh anti-human rights rhetoric, aggressive immigration policies, and mass deportation raids have already cast a dark shadow over the world’s biggest sporting event.”
FIFA and White House Responses
FIFA did not immediately respond to a request for comment. However, the White House issued a statement describing the World Cup as “one of the greatest and most spectacular events in the history of mankind.”
“This will be a monumental event that requires close coordination between the Trump Administration, FIFA, and all of our great federal, state, and local partners,” said White House spokesman Davis Ingle. “President Trump is focused on ensuring that this is not only an incredible experience for all fans and visitors, but also the safest and most secure in history – and no amount of ridiculous scare tactics driven by liberal activist groups and the left-wing media will change that.”
Expanded Tournament Amid Controversy
The 48-team expanded World Cup kicks off next week, with FIFA boss Gianni Infantino having promised that the world will be welcomed to the United States for the sporting spectacle co-hosted by Canada and Mexico. However, Trump’s policies, including a massive immigration crackdown, have sparked fears of possible ICE enforcement among travelers and locals alike. Critics have also blasted Infantino for his chummy relationship with the U.S. president.
Last month, Iran confirmed they would move their planned base camp from Arizona to Mexico, following joint U.S.-Israel strikes on Iran that began in late February.
“FIFA had promised … the most inclusive tournament in history,” Florence told reporters. “Yet, with only seven days until the opening whistle, the reality for workers, fans, journalists, and communities on the ground looks vastly different.”
Security Promises and Local Measures
The World Cup kicks off a year after U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials promised to be “suited and booted” at the Club World Cup in the United States, stoking anxiety among tourists and locals alike. In response, Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna told reporters this week that civil immigration enforcement will not take place at FIFA World Cup games or events in Los Angeles.
