Trump's Controversial Policy for World Cup Tourists to Disclose Social Media Histories Described as 'Alarming'
A newly proposed mandate for World Cup fans journeying to the United States to disclose personal social media profile details has been called "profoundly unacceptable."
Mandatory Submission for ESTA Travelers
According to the proposal, visitors from 42 countries—such as 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, providing this information was voluntary.
"The US government's announced plans are deeply concerning," stated Ronan Evain, executive director of Football Supporters Europe. "Freedom of expression and the right of privacy are fundamental rights. No supporter surrenders those rights just because they cross a border."
He added, "This policy introduces a chilling atmosphere of surveillance that directly contradicts the inclusive atmosphere the tournament is supposed to embody and it must be rescinded at once."
Roots in an Earlier Presidential Directive
The proposal stems from an executive order issued by former President Trump in early 2025 that aims "to ensure that all aliens wishing to enter the US are thoroughly checked to the fullest extent possible."
Government Response and Reasoning
A representative for the border agency offered clarification on the issue. "This is not a change on this subject for those coming to the country," the official stated. "It is not a final rule, it is simply the initial phase in initiating a process to have new policy options to keep the public safe."
The spokesperson further noted, "We are continuously evaluating how we vet those entering the country, especially after the recent attack in Washington DC. The measure is consistent with the January 2025 Executive Order to vet those who are coming into this country using the visa waiver system by allowing CBP to collect further data from foreign nationals using the visa waiver programme."
