Morocco, set to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup, is under severe global scrutiny after animal welfare groups accused the government of killing thousands of stray dogs in an effort to “clean up” city streets.
The country is home to an estimated three million stray dogs, and activists claim authorities plan to cull hundreds of thousands of animals ahead of the World Cup and the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Gruesome methods like poisoning, shooting, and beatings are allegedly being used.
The International Animal Welfare and Protection Coalition (IAWPC) stated the situation has gotten “out of control” since Morocco was awarded joint-hosting rights.
The Moroccan embassy in London “categorically denied” the claims, asserting more dog shelters will be used.
Rabat officially delegates animal management to local municipalities, though a recent court ruling assigned responsibility for the killings to the government.
Activists are demanding the government implement the existing humane “Trap, Neuter, Vaccinate, and Return” (TNVR) program instead of culling. Pressure is mounting on FIFA to intervene and condemn the alleged atrocities.
