The UN has criticized the U.S. over its immigration policy ahead of the 2026 World Cup
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk called on the United States to review its immigration and security policies ahead of the World Cup. The statement emphasizes the need to adhere to international human rights standards when organizing major sporting events and to ensure equal access for fans from different countries.
The statement was made at a press conference in Geneva just hours before the start of the World Cup. The UN stresses that aggressive border controls and unfounded visa denials have already disrupted preparations for many national teams, officials, and thousands of fans.
According to Volker Türk, major sporting events should unite the world in peace and respect for human dignity, yet the current strict security measures in the U.S. create an atmosphere of division and marginalize migrants. At the same time, FIFA was quick to distance itself from the scandal, stating that it has no right to interfere in internal immigration procedures or the host country’s sovereign right to issue visas.
The most high-profile incident on the eve of the tournament was the turn-away at the border of Somali referee Omar Artan, who was supposed to officiate World Cup matches. The U.S. State Department responded that the referee had suspicious ties to individuals belonging to terrorist organizations. In his home country, however, he became a true hero, greeted with immense respect.
In addition, ordinary fans from around the world have also been affected. Fans from Morocco, Scotland, and other countries are complaining en masse about the sudden cancellation or denial of tourist visas immediately before departure, despite having purchased expensive plane tickets and booked accommodations in advance. The UN emphasizes that such practices are discriminatory and that the host country is obligated to ensure a safe environment for all tournament guests.
This was reported by United Nations News.
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