sports

World Cup will be ‘bonanza of sportswashing’ under Trump, say human rights groups

Fans warned of uncertainty around protests and policing

World Cup will be ‘bonanza of sportswashing’ under Trump, say human rights groups

TL;DR

  • Human rights groups label the World Cup a "bonanza of sportswashing" by the Trump administration.
  • Concerns exist regarding the protection of individual rights, worker protections, and fan safety.
  • The US administration's immigration policies and threats to press freedom are cited as reasons for the risk of exclusion and fear.
  • Only four of the 16 host cities have published mandatory "Host City Human Rights Action Plans".
  • Fan groups are uncertain about how US authorities will respond to protests or minor offenses by attendees.
  • There are calls for FIFA to ensure the World Cup is inclusive and safe for everyone, regardless of background.
  • A FIFA peace prize awarded to Donald Trump is being criticized for violating political neutrality, with calls for its abolition and an investigation into its awarding process.