Trump's Proposed Plan for FIFA World Cup Tourists to Disclose Social Media Activity Described as 'Alarming'

A newly proposed mandate for soccer tournament fans journeying to the US to hand over their social media profile details has been branded "profoundly unacceptable."

Compulsory Disclosure for Visa Waiver Applicants

Under the plan, visitors from 42 countries—such as the UK—who use the visa waiver program would be required to submit details about online accounts they have maintained in the last five-year period. Until now, submitting this information was voluntary.

"The US government's proposed measures are deeply concerning," said Ronan Evain, executive director of Football Supporters Europe. "Freedom of expression and the right to privacy are fundamental rights. No football fan gives up those rights just because they enter a country."

He continued, "This policy introduces a climate of fear of surveillance that directly contradicts the inclusive atmosphere the World Cup is meant to represent and it must be withdrawn at once."

Roots in an Previous Executive Order

The proposal follows an executive order issued by Donald Trump in January that aims "to guarantee that all aliens seeking admission the US are vetted and screened to the fullest extent possible."

Government Statement and Justification

A spokesperson for the border agency provided clarification on the matter. "Nothing has changed on this front for those traveling to the United States," the official stated. "It is not a implemented policy, it is simply the first step in starting a discussion to have additional measures to keep the American people secure."

The spokesperson further noted, "We are constantly looking at how we screen those coming into the country, especially after the recent attack in the capital. The measure is consistent with the January 2025 Executive Order to thoroughly check those who are entering this country using the visa waiver system by enabling CBP to collect further data from non-US citizens applying through the ESTA program."