Over 120 advocacy groups, including the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and NAACP, issued a travel advisory on Thursday warning that visitors attending the 2026 World Cup in the United States may face arbitrary detention, deportation, and other human rights abuses. The warning comes less than two months before the sporting event kicks off in Mexico.
Key Takeaways
Human rights groups issued a travel advisory warning visitors to the U.S. for the 2026 World Cup about potential human rights abuses.
- Over 120 advocacy groups, including ACLU and NAACP, warn of risks like arbitrary detention and racial profiling
- The advisory highlights concerns over Trump administration's immigration policies and erosion of federal protections
- Groups urge FIFA to pressure the U.S. government for better human rights guarantees
- World Cup matches will be held across 11 U.S. cities starting in June
The groups highlighted concerns over widespread immigration crackdowns by the Trump administration and erosion of federal protections for racial minorities and LGBTQ individuals. According to the advisory, fans, players, journalists, and other visitors may face risks such as racial profiling, searches of electronic devices, or cruel treatment if detained in immigration facilities.
Jamil Dakwar, ACLU human rights program director, criticized FIFA's response: "FIFA has been paying lip service to human rights while cosying up with the Trump administration," he said. The groups urged FIFA to use its leverage to push for meaningful policy changes and binding assurances that will make people feel safe to travel and enjoy the games.
The advisory pointed to six areas of risk, including arbitrary denial of entry, invasive social media screening, expanded travel restrictions, violent immigration enforcement, suppression of speech and protest, and poor conditions in U.S. immigration detention facilities. The groups recommended precautions such as securing electronic devices and downloading emergency notification apps.
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