University Network for Human Rights joins civil society in issuing Joint Travel Advisory for the United States ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup
April 24, 2026
Over 120 civil society organizations, including the University Network for Human Rights, have issued a joint travel advisory ahead of the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup in the United States — an effort coordinated by the ACLU.
The advisory underscores that, in the absence of meaningful action from FIFA, host cities, or the U.S. administration, fans, players, journalists, and other visitors traveling to the United States could be at risk of the following human rights abuses:
Arbitrary denial of entry and risk of arrest, detention and/or deportation
Expanded restrictions and limitation on travel and entry to the U.S.
Invasive social media screening and searches of electronic devices
Violent and unconstitutional immigration enforcement, including racial profiling
Suppression of speech and protest and increased surveillance
Cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment – and even death – while in ICE detention or custody
With up to 10 million people expected to travel to 11 U.S. cities, these concerns are especially grave. The reported role of immigration enforcement in World Cup security further heightens concerns and raises questions about safety, accountability, and the protection of human rights.
In the absence of clear commitments from FIFA, host cities, and U.S. authorities, these risks demand immediate attention. Concrete safeguards must be put in place to ensure that all individuals can travel without fear of rights violations, regardless of their nationality or background. Human rights protections must be integral to the planning and execution of global sporting events.
Read the full travel advisory: https://www.aclu.org/documents/2026-world-cup-travel-advisory
Read the press release: https://www.aclu.org/press-releases/over-120-civil-society-groups-issue-travel-advisory-for-u-s-ahead-of-fifa-world-cup
