The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has urged a “major rethink” of U.S. immigration and security policies ahead of this year’s World Cup, which kicks off on Thursday.
Türk warned that racial profiling, excessive surveillance and strict immigration enforcement are already impacting players, officials and supporters, and could overshadow the global tournament being jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Speaking to journalists on Wednesday, the UN human rights chief stressed that major sporting events should serve as platforms for unity, peace and mutual respect.
“Mega sporting events are moments when the world should come together in solidarity and harmony,” he said, noting the ancient Greek tradition where such occasions encouraged truces and peaceful relations.
He emphasised that the World Cup must guarantee a safe, dignified and inclusive environment for competing teams, fans, officials and society at large.
His remarks follow several reported incidents involving entry restrictions into the United States. Iran’s national team reportedly shifted its training base from Arizona to Mexico after some officials were denied visas, while a FIFA-accredited Somali referee was refused entry over alleged vetting concerns.
There were also reports of a Senegalese player being subjected to a security search on a U.S. airport tarmac, while supporters from countries such as Morocco and Scotland said their travel documents were rejected or cancelled shortly before their trips despite significant financial commitments.
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Türk said these incidents reflect wider concerns about how immigration policies are being implemented and called for measures that uphold human rights and human dignity, especially during an international event designed to unite people across cultures.
He further urged an end to the dehumanisation of migrants, refugees and asylum seekers, warning that divisive and polarising narratives benefit no one. :::
