Amnesty International flags World Cup human rights risks

Amnesty International Warns of Human Rights Concerns at 2026 World Cup

This week, a prominent human rights organization raised concerns about the potential for repression at the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The report, titled Humanity Must Win: Defending Rights, Tackling Repression at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, highlights significant threats to fans, athletes, journalists, and local communities. It emphasizes that the United States, hosting the majority of matches—78 out of 104—faces particular scrutiny.

US Under Fire for Authoritarian Tactics

The document labels the U.S. situation as a “human rights emergency,” citing ICE immigration agents’ actions, including detentions of children and mass deportations. In Minnesota, where two citizens were killed in January, such measures have intensified. According to the New York Times, over 500,000 individuals were removed from the country in 2025 alone. Additionally, LGBTQI+ fan groups report feeling unsafe, and supporters from four qualifying nations are barred from entry. Travel bans on Haiti and Iran, along with partial restrictions for Ivory Coast and Senegal, further complicate access.

“The 2026 World Cup threatens to deliver more repression than football. Anyone who protests or expresses criticism must expect repression at the World Cup,” said Julia Duchrow, Amnesty International’s secretary general in Germany.

The report also notes that the U.S.-Israel conflict has cast doubt on Iran’s participation. Meanwhile, Canada and Mexico face criticism for their own measures. Mexico has deployed 100,000 security forces, including the military, amid reports of violence. A women’s group plans a peaceful demonstration at the opening match in Mexico City, seeking answers about over 133,000 missing persons.

Canada’s Challenges with Homelessness and Protests

In Canada, fears center on the marginalization of homeless populations in host cities like Vancouver and Toronto. The report mentions that restrictions on freedom of assembly have affected protests, such as those supporting Palestinian rights and student movements opposing Israeli actions. These demonstrations were “unduly dispersed or cleared” by law enforcement, according to the document.

Amnesty’s concerns align with previous warnings from the Sport & Rights Alliance, which highlighted similar issues ahead of the 2022 World Cup draw in Washington. The group urged concrete protections for all participants. Now, Duchrow calls for FIFA and host nations to implement binding measures to ensure a fair and inclusive event.

FIFA has not yet commented on the report, though its statutes state a commitment to upholding internationally recognized human rights. President Gianni Infantino previously assured that “Everyone will be welcome in Canada, Mexico, and the United States for the FIFA World Cup next year.”