Trump's Proposed Plan for FIFA World Cup Tourists to Disclose Social Media Histories Labeled as 'Chilling'
A recently unveiled mandate for World Cup supporters journeying to the United States to disclose their online profile details has been called "profoundly unacceptable."
Mandatory Disclosure for Visa Waiver Applicants
Under the plan, visitors from dozens of nations—including the UK—who use the visa waiver program would be required to provide information about social media accounts they have held in the last five-year period. Until now, providing this data was voluntary.
"These announced plans are deeply concerning," stated Ronan Evain, head of Football Supporters Europe. "Free speech and the right of privacy are fundamental rights. No supporter surrenders those rights just because they cross a border."
He added, "This policy introduces a chilling atmosphere of monitoring that directly contradicts the welcoming, open spirit the tournament is supposed to embody and it must be withdrawn immediately."
Roots in an Previous Executive Order
The plan stems from an presidential directive issued by former President Trump in early 2025 that aims "to ensure that all foreign nationals wishing to enter the United States are vetted and screened to the fullest extent feasible."
Government Response and Reasoning
A spokesperson for the border agency offered clarification on the issue. "Nothing has changed on this subject for those coming to the country," the official said. "It is not a final rule, it is merely the first step in initiating a process to have additional measures to protect the American people secure."
The spokesperson further noted, "The department are continuously evaluating how we vet those entering the country, particularly after the terrorist incident in the capital. The measure is in line with the January 2025 directive to thoroughly check those who are entering this country using ESTA by enabling CBP to collect additional information from non-US citizens applying through the ESTA program."
