HRW asks FIFA to protect players protesting human rights abuses
Human Rights Watch asked FIFA to establish protection protocols for footballers who decide to protest human rights violations during the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
TL;DR
- Human Rights Watch (HRW) urges FIFA to create protocols protecting athletes protesting human rights abuses during the 2026 World Cup.
- The call is prompted by the persecution of the Iranian women's national team during the AFC Asian Cup.
- HRW demands FIFA implement safeguarding mechanisms, confidential reporting, and prohibit political agents who restrict athletes' rights.
- The Australian government granted asylum to five Iranian players and an executive, highlighting the need to protect athletes defending their convictions.
- Iranian players reported being monitored by Iranian security agents and controllers.
- FIFPRO believes the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and FIFA should have foreseen the risks and done more to protect the players.