International animal welfare groups are calling on FIFA to reconsider Morocco’s bid to co-host the 2030 World Cup following disturbing footage that appears to show the public killing of street dogs in preparation for the event.
The footage, released by the International Animal Coalition (IAC), shows street dogs in visible distress being collected in a series of so-called ‘cleansing’ efforts, reportedly to sanitise cities as part of Morocco’s preparation to host the tournament alongside Spain and Portugal.
The graphic content, which was published by the IAC earlier this week, reveals scenes where dogs are forcibly loaded onto vans with metal clamps, some even being killed in the presence of young children. Several of the animals are reportedly poisoned with strychnine, either injected or administered through bait, while others are said to be beaten to death.
“These killings are inhumane and done in full view of the public”
The IAC, a coalition of 20 prominent animal welfare organisations, including the RSPCA, has criticised FIFA’s role in enabling what they call an “inhumane massacre,” as the organisation has been aware of these practices but has not intervened.
According to the IAC, Morocco’s government plans to eliminate as many as three million street dogs ahead of the tournament in an attempt to “cleanse” urban areas. IAC chairman Les Ward said, “These killings are inhumane and done in full view of the public. This is traumatising young children and putting these poor animals, that are just as loving and intelligent as your pets at home, through untold suffering and torment.”
Ward also criticised FIFA’s stance, pointing to the organisation’s failure to address the issue despite regular evidence submissions from the IAC. He added, “The slogan used for the FIFA World Cup 2030 is: ‘Three Nations – Two Continents – One Dream’. If FIFA doesn’t act, it will have to add ‘And Three Million Dead Dogs’.”
The IAC claims that FIFA has received consistent weekly evidence since 2023, documenting the alleged actions taken by Moroccan authorities to reduce the street dog population. However, they assert that the international football body has failed to take action to either investigate the claims or pressure Moroccan authorities to halt these methods.
As FIFA is set to formally ratify Morocco’s co-hosting status on 11 December 2024, there are growing concerns that a confirmed bid will embolden further animal control efforts, potentially escalating the alleged mass cullings.
Les added, “For years, the government of Morocco has shown no remorse for any of its actions, hoping that its ‘ugly secret’ remains hidden from international eyes. Dogs, street and owners that form part of the fabric of Morocco, are treated like garbage to be disposed of by any means.”
“FIFA must act now to stop the cruel dog killings in Morocco”
“Children that witness the killings are being traumatised. Calls and protests by growing numbers of Moroccan people are ignored and often met with harassment and intimidation.
“FIFA has been presented with the evidence about what is going on yet has refused to act. The killings have centred around proposed tournament venues and reach a peak before FIFA site visits. Yet FIFA seems content to turn a blind eye. This is unacceptable and something many football fans will be furious to learn.
“FIFA must act now to stop the cruel dog killings in Morocco. Until this happens, Morocco should be suspended as a co-host.”
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