Amnesty Flags FIFA World Cup Human Rights Risks

Report Highlights Concerns Across Host Nations

Amnesty International has raised concerns about potential challenges for attendees of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The group’s 36-page report, titled “Humanity Must Win: Defending Rights, Tackling Repression at the 2026 FIFA World Cup,” warns that the tournament could lead to “significant risks and impacts” for fans, players, journalists, and local communities.

United States Under Scrutiny

The report singles out the United States for harsh criticism, noting that the country is hosting 78 of the 104 matches. It labels the situation a “human rights emergency,” citing a “recognizable pattern of authoritarian practices.” This includes actions by U.S. immigration agents, such as breaking down doors and detaining children, as well as deportations of hundreds of thousands of people.

“Armed agents are breaking down doors, detaining children and have deported hundreds of thousands of people,” the report states, referencing ICE operations in states like Minnesota.

The New York Times estimates that over 500,000 individuals were removed from the U.S. in 2025 alone. Additionally, LGBTQI+ fan groups report feeling unsafe during public events, while supporters of four qualifying nations face entry restrictions.

Canada and Mexico Face Criticisms Too

Canada and Mexico, though hosting fewer matches, are not exempt from the report’s scrutiny. In Mexico, authorities have deployed 100,000 security personnel, including military forces, to address rising violence. A women’s rights group is organizing a protest outside the opening match in Mexico City, demanding clarity on over 133,000 disappeared individuals.

Canada, meanwhile, is accused of marginalizing homeless populations in host cities like Vancouver and Toronto. The report mentions that peaceful demonstrations supporting Palestinian rights and student efforts opposing Israel’s actions have been dispersed by law enforcement.

Historical Context and Calls for Safeguards

Similar issues were previously highlighted by the Sport & Rights Alliance, which includes Amnesty, during the 2022 World Cup draw. At that time, the group urged concrete protections for workers, athletes, and children. Now, Julia Duchrow, Amnesty’s Secretary General in Germany, repeats the demand: “FIFA and host countries must present binding safeguarding mechanisms to ensure a rights-respecting World Cup.”

“The 2026 World Cup threatens to deliver more repression than football. Anyone who protests or expresses criticism must expect repression,” Duchrow said.

Despite promises from FIFA’s president, Gianni Infantino, that “Everyone will be welcome” in the three host nations, the report questions whether these assurances align with on-the-ground realities.

FIFA’s Statutory Commitments

FIFA’s statutes state the organization is “committed to respecting all internationally recognized human rights.” However, the report challenges this pledge, arguing that current policies and enforcement practices risk undermining the very values the tournament aims to celebrate.