Trump's Controversial Policy for World Cup Visitors to Disclose Social Media Activity Described as 'Alarming'

A newly proposed requirement for World Cup fans traveling to the US to disclose personal social media account information has been branded "profoundly unacceptable."

Mandatory Disclosure for ESTA Travelers

According to the proposal, tourists from dozens of nations—such as the UK—who use the visa waiver program would be obliged to provide information about social media accounts they have held in the past five years. Previously, providing this data was optional.

"These announced plans are deeply concerning," said Ronan Evain, executive director of Football Supporters Europe. "Freedom of expression and the right to privacy are universal human rights. No football fan surrenders those rights just because they cross a border."

He added, "This policy introduces a chilling atmosphere of surveillance that directly contradicts the welcoming, open spirit the tournament is supposed to represent and it must be rescinded immediately."

Origins in an Previous Presidential Directive

The plan stems from an executive order signed by Donald Trump in early 2025 that aims "to guarantee that all aliens seeking admission the United States are thoroughly checked to the fullest extent possible."

Official Response and Justification

A representative for the border agency offered context on the matter. "This is not a change on this subject for those traveling to the country," the spokesperson stated. "It is not a final rule, it is simply the first step in initiating a process to have new policy options to keep the American people safe."

The spokesperson further noted, "We are constantly looking at how we vet those coming into the country, especially after the terrorist attack in Washington DC. The measure is in line with the earlier Executive Order to vet those who are entering this country using the visa waiver system by allowing CBP to gather further data from foreign nationals using the visa waiver programme."