Trump's Controversial Policy for World Cup Tourists to Reveal Online Histories Described as 'Alarming'

A recently unveiled mandate for World Cup supporters traveling to the US to hand over personal online profile details has been called "profoundly unacceptable."

Compulsory Disclosure for Visa Waiver Applicants

According to the proposal, visitors from dozens of nations—including the UK—who use the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) would be obliged to provide details about social media accounts they have maintained in the past five years. Previously, submitting this information was optional.

"These proposed measures are deeply concerning," said Ronan Evain, head of Football Supporters Europe. "Freedom of expression and the right of privacy are universal human rights. No supporter gives up those rights just because they enter a country."

He added, "This policy creates a climate of fear of monitoring that directly contradicts the welcoming, open spirit the tournament is supposed to embody and it must be rescinded at once."

Origins in an Previous Executive Order

The proposal follows an executive order signed by former President Trump in January that seeks "to ensure that all foreign nationals wishing to enter the US are thoroughly checked to the maximum degree possible."

Government Statement and Reasoning

A representative for the border agency offered context on the matter. "Nothing has changed on this front for those traveling to the United States," the official said. "It is not a final rule, it is merely the first step in initiating a process to have new policy options to keep the American people safe."

The spokesperson further noted, "The department are constantly looking at 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 allowing CBP to gather further data from foreign nationals using the ESTA program."