As the anticipation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup builds, concerns surrounding human rights have taken center stage. Amnesty International has called on FIFA, along with national football associations and sponsors, to address human rights issues during the tournament scheduled to kick off on June 11 in Canada, Mexico, and the United States. Highlighting the situation, Amnesty insists that the rights of fans, players, journalists, workers, and local communities must be safeguarded.
The organization has emphasized the responsibility of host countries to adhere to international human rights laws amidst what it terms an “acute human rights crisis.” The United States, in particular, faces scrutiny over the actions of its immigration agencies. Amnesty documented significant abuses by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), with 43 deaths occurring during detention between January 2025 and March 2026. In more alarming terms, the group recounted operations across major cities, pointing to unlawful arrests and detentions by ICE, which led to the deaths of individuals such as Renée Good and Keith Porter here.
These operations are further complicated by the agency’s agreements with local law enforcement in World Cup host cities like Dallas and Miami, deputizing officers to enforce immigration laws. Amnesty International has expressed concern over the lack of assurance from U.S. authorities that immigrant communities will not face ethnic profiling, unlawful detention, or deportation during the games.
Journalistic freedom, another cornerstone of democratic societies, has also been under threat. A report from Reporters Without Borders indicates that Mexico is currently the most perilous country for journalists, with at least seven journalists killed in 2025 alone. Furthermore, the United States has seen similar concerns, with cases such as journalist Mario Guevara’s deportation after he reported on ICE activities adding to the trepidation according to France 24.
The right to peaceful assembly is also under the microscope. The U.S. has faced criticism for revoking the visas of 8,000 students who protested internationally contentious issues such as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Similarly, Canada has raised objections by implementing ‘exclusion zones’ that restrict lawful protests in certain areas.
This scrutiny comes as the 2026 World Cup is poised to be the largest and reportedly most financially successful iteration, with projections suggesting revenues upwards of $11 billion. Amidst the economic ambitions, the calls from Amnesty International and other watchdogs indicate that the spotlight must not waiver from upholding human rights alongside the world’s most popular sporting events.