How Morocco's stray dog plan for the 2030 World Cup affects animal safety

Animal groups say 3 million dogs are being hurt in Morocco to clean the streets, which is a much higher number than in past years.
By Newsroom | Animal Welfare, Morocco |

Reports suggest a significant operation is underway in Morocco concerning the nation's stray dog population, drawing strong reactions from international animal welfare groups. These groups allege that harsh methods are being employed to reduce dog numbers, particularly as Morocco prepares to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup. Official statements, however, point to a focus on humane population control measures. The disparity in accounts creates a complex picture requiring careful examination of available evidence.

Contextualizing the Situation

The reported actions come in the lead-up to the 2030 FIFA World Cup, a major international event. Multiple news outlets highlight the involvement of the International Animal Welfare and Protection Coalition (IAWPC), which has publicly detailed alleged inhumane treatment of stray dogs. The IAWPC claims this effort is a deliberate "clean-up" to present a more favorable image to international visitors, fans, and media during the tournament. The coalition has submitted documentation, including photographs, to FIFA, detailing alleged poisonings, starvation, and shootings of dogs. Activists, including primatologist Jane Goodall, have publicly called on FIFA to intervene and hold Morocco accountable.

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Conversely, other reports describe Morocco's efforts as part of an expanded Trap, Neuter, Vaccinate, and Return (TNVR) program. Officials state this initiative aims to control the stray dog population humanely and aligns with international animal welfare standards. The establishment of TNVR centers, with more planned across the country, is cited as evidence of this approach.

Conflicting Accounts of Methods

The core of the controversy lies in the methods allegedly being used.

Outrage as three MILLION dogs to be 'massacred' by firing squad ahead of the World Cup - 2

  • Allegations of Brutal Culling:

  • The IAWPC and other animal rights groups have described "horrifying methods" and "brutal culling."

  • Specific accusations include dogs being poisoned, shot, and burned alive.

  • Disturbing images and videos have reportedly circulated on social media, showing dogs in distress and being transported in cages.

  • The IAWPC's submission to FIFA includes a dossier with photographic evidence of poisonings and forced starvation.

  • Emphasis on Humane Control:

  • Moroccan authorities, as described in some reports, are pursuing an expanded Trap, Neuter, Vaccinate, and Return (TNVR) program.

  • This program is presented as an effort to control the growing stray dog population humanely.

  • A pilot TNVR facility near Rabat is operational, with plans for fourteen more centers nationwide.

  • Officials state the goal is to improve safety and showcase a commitment to animal welfare.

The Role of the 2030 World Cup

The timing of these events, coinciding with preparations for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, is a central point of contention.

  • "Clean-up" Operation for the World Cup:

  • Groups like the IAWPC explicitly link the intensified extermination of dogs to the World Cup confirmation.

  • The stated aim, according to officials mentioned in reports, is to make cities and tourist areas appear cleaner and more appealing to international visitors.

  • This suggests a motivation to avoid negative perceptions associated with stray animals during a major global event.

  • Alignment with International Standards:

  • The TNVR program is presented as aligning Morocco with international animal welfare standards.

  • The initiative is intended to improve safety and showcase a commitment to welfare, which could be beneficial for a host nation.

Key Actors and Their Stances

Several individuals and organizations have voiced strong opinions on the matter.

Outrage as three MILLION dogs to be 'massacred' by firing squad ahead of the World Cup - 3

  • International Animal Welfare and Protection Coalition (IAWPC):

  • Has launched a campaign called "Morocco's Ugly Secret."

  • Submitted a detailed dossier to FIFA outlining alleged inhumane practices.

  • Claims a pattern of large-scale animal killings ahead of major international events.

  • Jane Goodall:

  • A renowned primatologist and animal rights advocate.

  • Has publicly condemned the alleged methods and urged FIFA to intervene.

  • Called on FIFA to suspend Morocco's hosting rights if the killings continue.

  • Accused FIFA of ignoring "a horrific act of barbarity."

  • PETA:

  • A spokesman stated that Morocco has not hidden its practices of poisoning, shooting, and burning dogs.

  • Moroccan Authorities:

  • Described as implementing an expanded TNVR program.

  • Aiming for humane population control and improved safety.

  • Seeking to showcase a commitment to animal welfare.

  • FIFA:

  • Has not yet released an official public statement regarding the allegations.

  • Reports suggest the organization is closely monitoring the situation.

  • Has been urged by activists to take action, including the possibility of suspending Morocco's hosting rights.

Evidence and Documentation

The evidence presented varies in nature and source.

  • Documentary Evidence:

  • The IAWPC claims to have submitted a 91-page dossier to FIFA.

  • This dossier reportedly includes photographs documenting alleged cruelties.

  • Reports mention disturbing videos circulating on social media, though the content and verification of these videos are not detailed.

  • Official Program Descriptions:

  • Information about Morocco's Trap, Neuter, Vaccinate, and Return (TNVR) program is presented as factual.

  • Details include the operational status of a pilot facility and plans for expansion.

  • Expert Opinions and Statements:

  • Public statements from Jane Goodall and PETA representatives reflect strong criticism of alleged practices.

  • The IAWPC has issued public statements detailing their findings.

  • Unverified Claims:

  • The precise number of dogs involved (estimated at three million) and the specific methods employed are largely based on claims by animal welfare groups.

  • The extent to which official authorities are involved in alleged killings versus implementing TNVR is not definitively clarified in all reports.

Conclusion and Implications

The situation in Morocco presents a significant discrepancy between allegations of mass, inhumane culling of stray dogs and official accounts of implementing a humane population control program. Animal welfare groups, supported by prominent advocates like Jane Goodall, have raised alarms, submitting detailed evidence and urging FIFA to take action. These groups assert that the efforts are a deliberate "clean-up" operation in anticipation of the 2030 World Cup, employing cruel and illegal methods.

Read More: Morocco kills stray dogs for 2030 World Cup causing global anger

Outrage as three MILLION dogs to be 'massacred' by firing squad ahead of the World Cup - 4

Conversely, Moroccan authorities are reportedly pursuing an expanded Trap, Neuter, Vaccinate, and Return (TNVR) initiative, aiming for humane management and alignment with international welfare standards. The effectiveness and ethical implications of both approaches remain under scrutiny.

FIFA's current silence on the matter, while reportedly monitoring the situation, leaves a critical gap in addressing the public outcry and the conflicting narratives. The lack of a definitive official statement from FIFA, coupled with the ongoing debate over methods, underscores the complexity of the issue. Future developments will likely hinge on the transparency of Morocco's animal management practices and FIFA's response to international pressure.

Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why are animal groups worried about stray dogs in Morocco before the 2030 World Cup?
Groups like the IAWPC say Morocco is killing dogs to make cities look better for tourists. They sent a 91-page report to FIFA showing that dogs are being poisoned or shot.
Q: What methods is Morocco using to manage the stray dog population in 2025?
The government says they use a program called TNVR to catch, fix, and vaccinate dogs safely. They have opened one center near Rabat and plan to build 14 more to help dogs humanely.
Q: How has Jane Goodall responded to the reports of dog killings in Morocco?
Jane Goodall is a famous animal expert who asked FIFA to take the World Cup away from Morocco if the killings do not stop. She says the reported treatment of the dogs is very cruel and must end now.
Q: What is FIFA doing about the allegations of animal cruelty in Morocco?
FIFA has not made a public choice yet but is watching the situation closely. Activists want FIFA to force Morocco to follow international rules for animal safety before the games start.
Q: How many dogs are affected by the new animal control plans in Morocco?
Reports from animal rights groups estimate that up to 3 million stray dogs could be affected by these plans. This high number has caused people all over the world to sign petitions and post on social media.