Human Rights Watch Urges FIFA to Address Racism and Discriminatory Policies in the United States

Human Rights Watch Urges FIFA to Address Racism and Discriminatory Policies in the United States
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Human Rights Watch has called on FIFA to use its influence to confront racism inside and outside stadiums and to address the impact of discriminatory US immigration policies on fans, players, workers, and local communities.

According to Human Rights Watch, FIFA released an analysis on July 1 stating that “racist abuse is rising and has become a constant threat to players’ wellbeing.” FIFA said it had identified more than 89,000 abusive online posts during the tournament, 11 percent of which included racist abuse. A UN human rights spokesperson described Amarilla’s remarks as “despicable, and sadly not isolated,” and called on governments and sports organizations to prevent racism and all other forms of discrimination.

Human Rights Watch said most World Cup matches are being held in the United States, where President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown, which the group says mainly targets Black and other communities of color, has put fans, workers, and communities at risk.

Before the tournament, the organization urged FIFA to use its influence with the Trump administration to oppose these measures, saying they fundamentally undermine the inclusive spirit of the World Cup and FIFA’s own anti-discrimination policies. It also called for pressure to secure a pause in Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations to protect those affected.

However, Human Rights Watch said FIFA instead awarded Trump its newly created “FIFA Peace Prize,” citing his “steadfast commitment to promoting peace and unity.” The organization also said human rights plans prepared by host cities in cooperation with FIFA failed to address risks linked to US immigration policies.