Trump's Proposed Policy for World Cup Tourists to Disclose Social Media Histories Labeled as 'Alarming'
A newly proposed requirement for World Cup supporters traveling to the US to disclose personal social media profile details has been called "profoundly unacceptable."
Compulsory Submission for ESTA Travelers
According to the proposal, visitors from 42 countries—such as the UK—who use the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) would be required to submit details about social media accounts they have maintained in the last five-year period. Until now, providing this information was voluntary.
"The US government's announced plans are deeply concerning," said Ronan Evain, executive director of Football Supporters Europe. "Free speech and the right to privacy are fundamental rights. No supporter gives up those rights just because they cross a border."
He continued, "The measure introduces a chilling atmosphere of surveillance that directly contradicts the welcoming, open spirit the World Cup is meant to embody and it must be rescinded at once."
Origins in an Earlier Presidential Directive
The proposal stems from an presidential directive issued by former President Trump in January that seeks "to guarantee that all aliens seeking admission the US are vetted and screened to the fullest extent possible."
Government Statement and Reasoning
A spokesperson for the border agency offered context on the issue. "This is not a change on this front for those traveling to the country," the official said. "This is not a implemented policy, it is merely the initial phase in starting a discussion to have additional measures to keep the public secure."
The spokesperson added, "We are continuously evaluating how we screen those coming into the country, particularly after the recent attack in the capital. The measure is in line with the earlier directive to vet those who are entering this country using ESTA by enabling CBP to collect additional information from non-US citizens using the ESTA program."
