Morocco planning to kill millions of stray dogs ahead of 2030 FIFA World Cup to make cities look 'nicer'

FIFA has yet to issue an official statement regarding the situation.

In preparation for co-hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal, Morocco has come under intense scrutiny for its reported plans to cull up to three million stray dogs. This initiative, aimed at enhancing the country's appeal to tourists, has ignited a global outcry from animal welfare organisations and activists.

Reports indicate that Moroccan authorities have been employing inhumane methods to reduce the stray dog population, including poisoning with strychnine—a highly toxic chemical—and shooting dogs in public areas. Survivors of these initial attempts are allegedly subjected to further brutality, such as being beaten to death with shovels.

The International Animal Welfare and Protection Coalition has raised alarms, suggesting that up to three million dogs could be exterminated as part of this campaign. Renowned primatologist and animal rights advocate Jane Goodall has also intervened, urging FIFA to take immediate action to halt these killings. In a letter to FIFA, Goodall highlighted the brutal methods being used and called for the suspension of the tournament in Morocco if the culling continues.

Despite legal protections in Morocco that prohibit the culling of street dogs, reports suggest that authorities have persisted with these actions, often without intervention from local law enforcement. Animal welfare organisations advocating for humane solutions, such as trap-neuter-vaccinate-release (TNVR) programmes, are facing increasing challenges. The widespread violence has led to overcrowded shelters, with resources rapidly depleting as they struggle to care for the influx of animals.

FIFA has yet to issue an official statement regarding the situation. However, sources indicate that the organisation is closely monitoring the developments in Morocco and is conducting site inspections to assess the venues slated for the World Cup matches.

The international community continues to watch closely, urging Moroccan authorities to adopt humane and sustainable methods for managing the stray dog population, aligning with global standards for animal welfare.