Human Rights Groups Issue US Travel Advisory Ahead of 2026 World Cup

Advocacy groups have issued a travel advisory warning visitors to the 2026 World Cup in Mexico about potential human rights abuses. The advisory, signed by dozens of organizations including the American Civil Liberties Union and the NAACP, highlights concerns over immigration crackdowns under the Trump administration and erosion of federal protections for racial minorities.

The event is set against a backdrop of widespread immigration enforcement and risks faced by visitors from immigrant communities or minority groups. These include potential detention, deportation, or even cruel treatment in immigration facilities if detained. The advisory urges visitors to exercise caution and have an emergency plan due to the heightened risk of serious harm.

FIFA, the sport’s global governing body, has been urged to use its leverage to pressure the US government to uphold human rights for all attendees and residents of the host cities. However, FIFA has not yet provided meaningful assurances. The World Cup will feature 104 matches across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, starting in June with the championship match held in East Rutherford, New Jersey.