Trump's Controversial Policy for FIFA World Cup Visitors to Reveal Social Media Histories Labeled as 'Chilling'
A newly proposed requirement for soccer tournament supporters traveling to the US to hand over their social media profile details has been called "profoundly unacceptable."
Mandatory Submission for Visa Waiver Travelers
According to the proposal, tourists from dozens of nations—including the UK—who use the visa waiver program would be obliged to provide details about social media accounts they have maintained in the past five years. Previously, submitting this information was voluntary.
"The US government's announced plans are profoundly unacceptable," said Ronan Evain, head of Football Supporters Europe. "Free speech and the right to privacy are fundamental rights. No football fan gives up those rights just because they enter a country."
He continued, "The measure introduces a chilling atmosphere of surveillance that directly contradicts the welcoming, open spirit the World Cup is supposed to embody and it must be rescinded immediately."
Roots in an Previous Presidential Directive
The plan follows an executive order signed by former President Trump in January that aims "to guarantee that all foreign nationals wishing to enter the US are thoroughly checked to the maximum degree feasible."
Government Statement and Justification
A spokesperson for the border agency provided clarification on the issue. "Nothing has changed on this front for those traveling to the country," the official said. "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 added, "We are constantly looking at how we screen those coming into the country, particularly after the recent incident in the capital. This new proposal is in line with the earlier directive to vet those who are coming into this country using ESTA by allowing CBP to gather further data from foreign nationals using the ESTA program."
