WANA (Apr 29) – For the first time, Human Rights Watch (HRW) has invoked the term “ceasefire” in connection with the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, calling for measures to ensure spectator safety.

 

The international organization has urged FIFA to pressure the U.S. government to curb the violent and repressive actions of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and to establish a “ceasefire to protect spectators” during the tournament.

 

ICE’s global reputation for heavy-handedness has intensified following the fatal shootings of two civilians within less than a month, incidents that sparked widespread protests in cities such as Minneapolis and heightened concerns over public safety at the World Cup.

 

Human Rights Watch, citing these concerns, has called for an end to systemic violence against both migrants and spectators, asking FIFA to:

 

  • Lift discriminatory travel bans,
  • Prevent offensive operations in and around tournament venues,
  • Protect children’s rights,
  • Uphold freedom of assembly and expression.

 

This initiative marks the first official use of the “ceasefire” concept in the context of sporting events in the U.S., highlighting global attention to the intersection of sports and human rights.