2026 World Cup: Human Rights Risks in US, Mexico & Canada | Amnesty Report

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup draws closer, Amnesty International has issued a stark warning regarding potential human rights violations in the three host nations: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The organization’s report, titled “Humanity Must Win: Defending rights, tackling repression at the 2026 FIFA World Cup,” highlights concerns ranging from discriminatory immigration policies in the U.S. To security risks in Mexico and housing crises in Canada. The report underscores the need for all involved – FIFA, national governments, and local authorities – to prioritize human rights protections throughout the tournament.

U.S. Immigration Policies Under Scrutiny

Amnesty International’s primary concerns center on the United States, citing a climate of fear created by what they describe as a discriminatory immigration policy and mass detentions under the Trump administration. According to the report, the U.S. Government deported over half a million people in 2025. Steve Cockburn of Amnesty International stated, “This record of unlawful arrests and expulsions was only possible because safeguards for a fair trial have been eroded. The right to liberty and security of hundreds of thousands of migrants and people fleeing for their lives is being undermined.” This policy, Amnesty argues, has fractured communities and instilled anxiety, potentially impacting fans traveling to the U.S. For the World Cup festivities.

The organization also points to existing travel restrictions as a potential barrier for supporters. Current U.S. Travel bans could prevent fans from countries including Ivory Coast, Haiti, Iran, and Senegal from attending matches unless they possessed a valid visa as of January 1, 2026. Amnesty International anticipates heightened surveillance of fans attending the World Cup within the U.S.

Mexico’s Security Measures and Potential for Repression

Turning to Mexico, Amnesty International expressed concern over the deployment of 100,000 security personnel, including military forces, in response to ongoing violence within the country. While acknowledging the need to address security challenges, the organization warns that this large-scale deployment could increase the risk of human rights violations against protestors and those exercising their right to peaceful assembly. The increased military presence raises questions about potential excessive force and limitations on freedom of expression during the tournament.

Canada’s Housing Crisis and Risk of Displacement

In Canada, Amnesty International highlighted the potential for the World Cup to exacerbate existing social issues, particularly the country’s ongoing housing crisis. Drawing on experiences from the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, the organization fears that individuals experiencing homelessness could face renewed displacement as cities prepare to host World Cup matches. This concern stems from a pattern of authorities clearing homeless encampments and restricting public spaces in anticipation of major international events. The report suggests proactive measures are needed to protect the rights of vulnerable populations and prevent further marginalization.

It’s important to note that the 2026 World Cup will be the first jointly hosted tournament in history, spanning three nations across North America. This unique logistical challenge also presents a complex landscape for ensuring consistent human rights protections across all host cities and venues. The scale of the event – with matches scheduled in cities across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico – necessitates a coordinated approach to address potential risks and safeguard the rights of all involved.

The Amnesty International report isn’t simply a list of potential problems; it’s a call to action. The organization urges FIFA and the host governments to proactively address these concerns and implement measures to protect human rights throughout the tournament. This includes ensuring fair and transparent immigration procedures, safeguarding the rights of protestors, protecting vulnerable populations from displacement, and providing access to justice for anyone who experiences human rights violations.

Supreme Court Ruling on TPS and Immigration Enforcement

Adding another layer to the human rights concerns, a recent Supreme Court ruling has significantly impacted the immigration landscape in the U.S. In October 2025, the Supreme Court granted the Trump administration’s request to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for over 300,000 Venezuelan nationals residing in the United States. This 6-3 decision overturned a previous ruling by a U.S. District Judge and effectively ends a program that provided temporary protection from deportation. Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin stated, “President Trump is restoring America’s immigration system so that it actually benefits the U.S. Citizen and today’s Supreme Court victory is a win for the American people and commonsense.” The ruling underscores a broader trend of stricter immigration enforcement and raises concerns about the treatment of migrants and asylum seekers in the lead-up to and during the World Cup.

The administration argues that TPS was intended to be temporary and had been “abused, exploited, and mangled into a de facto amnesty program.” This decision follows similar actions taken regarding TPS for individuals from Honduras, Nicaragua, and Nepal, signaling a continued effort to scale back the program. The implications of this ruling extend beyond the immediate impact on Venezuelan nationals, potentially creating a chilling effect for other migrants and asylum seekers considering traveling to the U.S.

Amnesty International has consistently voiced its opposition to these policies, arguing that they violate international human rights law and undermine the principles of fairness and due process. The organization’s concerns are particularly relevant as the World Cup approaches, with the potential for increased scrutiny and enforcement measures targeting migrants and visitors.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup presents a unique opportunity to showcase the best of North American culture and hospitality. However, Amnesty International’s report serves as a crucial reminder that the tournament’s success cannot reach at the expense of human rights. Addressing these concerns proactively is essential to ensure a safe, inclusive, and rights-respecting event for all.

The next key date to watch is the start of the FIFA World Cup qualifying matches in March 2026, which will further shape the participating teams and the logistical preparations for the tournament. Fans and stakeholders will be closely monitoring how the host nations address the human rights concerns raised by Amnesty International in the months leading up to the event.