Former President Trump's Controversial Plan for FIFA World Cup Visitors to Reveal Social Media Histories Described as 'Alarming'
A recently unveiled mandate for World Cup supporters journeying to the US to hand over their online account information has been called "deeply troubling."
Compulsory Disclosure for ESTA Applicants
Under the plan, tourists from dozens of nations—including the UK—who use the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) would be required to provide information about social media accounts they have maintained in the last five-year period. Previously, submitting this data was voluntary.
"The US government's proposed measures are deeply concerning," stated Ronan Evain, executive director of Football Supporters Europe. "Free speech and the right to privacy are universal human rights. No supporter gives up those rights just because they enter a country."
He continued, "The measure introduces a chilling atmosphere of surveillance that fundamentally opposes the welcoming, open spirit the tournament is meant to represent and it must be withdrawn immediately."
Origins in an Earlier Presidential Directive
The plan follows an presidential directive signed by Donald Trump in January that aims "to guarantee that all foreign nationals seeking admission the United States are thoroughly checked to the maximum degree feasible."
Official Response and Justification
A representative for US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) provided context on the matter. "Nothing has changed on this front for those traveling to the United States," the spokesperson stated. "This is not a implemented policy, it is simply the initial phase in starting a discussion to have additional measures to protect the American people secure."
The representative further noted, "The department are continuously evaluating how we vet those coming into the country, especially after the recent incident in the capital. The measure is consistent with the January 2025 directive to vet those who are coming into this country using the visa waiver system by enabling CBP to gather further data from non-US citizens applying through the ESTA program."
