March 28 – Human rights group FairSquare has said FIFA is ignoring evidence that its operations are causing children to be exposed to violence and harm because of the inhumane culling of dogs in Morocco since 2023.
Morocco hosted the 2023 FIFA Club World Cup and will be among six host nations to stage the 2030 World Cup. As a result, Moroccan authorities have reportedly increased the culling of the cities’ stray dog populations.
FairSquare reviewed correspondence between animal and child rights campaigners and FIFA which indicates that Zurich is not acknowledging clear evidence of the harm being caused to children and its responsibility to take action to prevent it.
“In ignoring inexcusable animal cruelty and the entirely preventable harm and suffering this is causing an untold number of children, FIFA appears to yet again be prioritising its relationship with tournament hosts over the well-being of the vulnerable groups affected by its operations,” said FairSquare co-director Nick McGeehan in a statement.
Last year FIFA, Fairsquare say, communicated that they were “contemplating adding some more specific language to future bidding requirements.”
FIFA’s website states that “Child protection is an essential part of safeguarding and refers to the action taken in response to a specific concern for a child or children who may be suffering or is/are at risk of suffering harm or abuse.” It also states that “when it comes to harassment, abuse, neglect or exploitation LACK OF ACTION IS NOT AN OPTION.”
Morocco will host a flurry of FIFA events in the coming years: from 2025 to 2029 the country will stage the Under-17 Women’s World Cup. FIFA also wants to open a permanent office in the North African nation.
Contact the writer of this story at samindra.kunti@insideworldfootball.com