The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk has called for a major review of the 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 stringent immigration enforcement measures could affect players, officials and supporters, potentially overshadowing the global tournament co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Speaking to journalists on Wednesday, the UN human rights chief said major sporting events should promote unity, peace and mutual respect among nations.
“Mega sporting events are moments when the world should come together in solidarity and harmony,” he said, citing the ancient Greek tradition in which such occasions fostered truces and peaceful relations.
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Türk stressed the need to ensure a safe, dignified and inclusive environment for teams, fans, officials and the wider public throughout the tournament.
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.”
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 called for an end to the dehumanisation of migrants, refugees and asylum seekers, warning that divisive and polarising narratives benefit no one.
NAN
