Former President Trump's Proposed Policy for World Cup Tourists to Disclose Social Media Activity Described as 'Chilling'
A newly proposed requirement for World Cup fans traveling to the US to hand over their online profile details has been called "profoundly unacceptable."
Mandatory Submission for Visa Waiver Travelers
Under the plan, visitors from 42 countries—including the UK—who use the visa waiver program would be obliged to submit information about social media accounts they have held in the last five-year period. Previously, providing this data was optional.
"The US government's proposed measures are deeply concerning," stated Ronan Evain, head of Football Supporters Europe. "Freedom of expression and the right to privacy are universal human rights. No supporter gives up those rights just because they cross a border."
He added, "This policy creates a chilling atmosphere of surveillance that directly contradicts the inclusive atmosphere the World Cup is meant to represent and it must be rescinded immediately."
Roots in an Previous Executive Order
The plan follows an executive order signed by former President Trump in early 2025 that aims "to ensure that all aliens wishing to enter the United States are vetted and screened to the fullest extent feasible."
Official Statement and Justification
A representative for the border agency offered context on the matter. "This is not a change on this subject for those traveling to the United States," the spokesperson said. "It is not a final rule, it is merely the first step in initiating a process to have additional measures to protect the public safe."
The spokesperson added, "The department are continuously evaluating how we vet those entering the country, particularly after the recent attack in the capital. The measure is consistent with the earlier directive to vet those who are entering this country using ESTA by enabling CBP to collect additional information from non-US citizens using the ESTA program."
