Morocco is facing growing international scrutiny over allegations that millions of stray dogs are being killed as part of preparations for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which the country will co-host with Spain and Portugal.
Animal welfare groups, including the International Animal Welfare and Protection Coalition (IAWPC), have claimed that stray dogs are being rounded up and exterminated using inhumane methods such as poisoning and shootings.
Allegations of brutal methods
In a report and petition, the coalition alleged that dogs were being poisoned with strychnine, shot by armed patrols and transported to facilities described as “kill centres”. The group further claimed some animals were disposed of in mass graves or incinerated.
The allegations have triggered widespread outrage on social media and among international activists.
Actor and activist Mark Ruffalo publicly condemned the reported actions, stating that killing animals for a sporting event would represent a “moral failure”.
Morocco rejects claims
Moroccan authorities have strongly denied the accusations. The Moroccan embassy in London said it was “entirely untrue” that the country planned a mass cull and reiterated its commitment to humane and sustainable animal population control.
Officials emphasised that Morocco has animal welfare regulations in place and is working on long-term management strategies rather than large-scale extermination.
FIFA monitoring situation
FIFA confirmed it is in contact with both Moroccan authorities and animal welfare organisations to ensure that commitments related to animal welfare are respected during preparations for the 2030 tournament.
The controversy has added a sensitive dimension to Morocco’s World Cup preparations, as global sporting events increasingly face scrutiny over ethical and environmental practices.