Amnesty International flags World Cup human rights risks

Amnesty International flags human rights risks for 2026 World Cup

Amnesty International has raised concerns over potential human rights challenges during the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The organization highlights “substantial threats and consequences for fans, players, journalists, workers, and local communities alike” in a report released this week. Titled “Humanity Must Win: Defending Rights, Tackling Repression at the 2026 FIFA World Cup,” the document points to the U.S. as the primary target of its scrutiny.

The U.S. is accused of creating a “human rights emergency” due to its “clear pattern of authoritarian behavior.” The report references ICE immigration agents in states like Minnesota, where two citizens were killed in January. These agents are described as “breaking down doors and detaining children,” with hundreds of thousands of deportations reported in 2025. The New York Times estimates over 500,000 people were removed from the country that year.

Amnesty also criticizes Canada and Mexico. In Mexico, authorities have deployed 100,000 security personnel, including the military, in response to rising violence. The report notes a planned protest by a women’s group at the opening match in Mexico City, highlighting the disappearance of more than 133,000 individuals. In Canada, fears are raised about the marginalization of homeless populations, particularly in Vancouver and Toronto. The group cites “waves of demonstrations” supporting Palestinian rights and student protests against Israeli actions, which were “unduly dispersed” by police.

The report links these issues to broader restrictions on freedom of assembly, with specific mention of entry bans for citizens of Haiti and Iran. Ivory Coast and Senegal face partial travel limitations as well. The U.S.-Israel conflict has cast doubt on Iran’s participation in the tournament. In contrast, Canada and Mexico host only 13 matches each, yet they too face criticism.

Amnesty’s Germany-based Secretary General, Julia Duchrow, warns that “the 2026 World Cup threatens to deliver more repression than football.” She emphasizes that “anyone who protests or expresses criticism must expect repression,” citing ongoing ICE raids, mass arrests, and travel restrictions. The group calls on FIFA and host nations to implement “binding safeguarding mechanisms” to ensure the tournament is inclusive and free from fear.

FIFA has not yet addressed the report directly. Its statutes state a commitment to “respecting all internationally recognized human rights,” while its president, Gianni Infantino, pledged in 2025 that “everyone will be welcome” in the three host countries. However, Amnesty argues that current measures fall short of guaranteeing safety and equity for all participants.

“If the raids by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the mass arrests, and the entry bans continue, this tournament will become a symbol of state intimidation.”