RIGHTS groups have warned fans, players and journalists travelling to this summer’s World Cup in the United States to “exercise caution”.
More than 120 organisations have issued a joint ‘travel advisory’, citing what they describe as “the Trump administration’s violent and abusive immigration crackdown”. The statement adds: “The Trump administration’s rising authoritarianism and increasing violence pose serious risks to all,” and warns that minority groups in particular are “vulnerable to serious harm”.
The coalition, which includes the American Civil Liberties Union, has also criticised Gianni Infantino over his relationship with Donald Trump. It has called on FIFA to put pressure on US authorities “to respect the fundamental human rights of every person visiting and attending the games”.
FIFA responded by saying it is “committed to respecting all internationally recognised human rights and shall strive to promote the protection of these rights”, adding it has a “commitment to human rights across all key activities and actors connected to the tournament”.
The advisory also raises concerns about possible entry denials, arrests, social media screening, racial profiling and increased surveillance. It highlights that travel bans are currently in place for nationals from four competing countries: Iran, Haiti, Senegal and Ivory Coast. Travellers are being urged to take precautions, such as removing sensitive data from their devices and keeping others informed of their plans.
The United States is co-hosting the tournament with Canada and Mexico, with the majority of matches set to be played in the US.
The groups also claim FIFA has failed to provide “concrete guarantees” on fan safety “while its president, Gianni Infantino, has aligned himself closer to the Trump administration”.
Concerns around security have grown amid the expansion of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which will be involved in World Cup operations. Fan group Football Supporters Europe previously said it was “extremely concerned by the ongoing militarisation of police forces in the US”.
A recent report by Amnesty International warned the tournament could become “a stage for repression and a platform for authoritarian practices”.
However, the White House’s World Cup Task Force has pushed back, saying the event will be “the largest, safest, and most welcoming sporting event in history”, adding it aims to deliver a tournament “that highlights America’s hospitality, commitment to security, and spirit of excellence”. It also said fans “can look forward to a smooth, secure, and truly unforgettable tournament”.
The World Cup is scheduled to start on 11 June when Mexico play South Africa in Mexico City.
