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Homeless cats and dogs in Morocco are being shot, poisoned, or left to die in cages without food or water to “clean up” the country as officials prepare to host the 2030 FIFA World Cup. Please urge FIFA to intervene and put a stop to the slaughter!
Men with rifles gunned down dogs in full view of shocked witnesses, including children.
Some dogs were poisoned, while others were burned alive.
Dogs and puppies separated from their mums are locked up together (10 to 20 in small cages) and left to die without food, water, or basic medical care in supposed “shelters” all around the country.
Three Million Animals May Be Murdered
Morocco is joining neighbouring countries Spain and Portugal in hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
One newspaper reported that the mass killings were carried out in host city Tangier to “beautify” the city ahead of a 2023 football tournament. The situation will only get worse ahead of the World Cup in Morocco with the government reportedly planning to exterminate 99% of all homeless dogs (approximately 3 million of them) across the country.
FIFA’s Intervention for Animals in Morocco is Vital
FIFA’s Bid Evaluation Report dated 29 November 2024, which outlines the commitments made by Morocco in its bid to host the 2030 FIFA World Cup, states, “[T]he bid has outlined its commitment to the protection of animal rights and has highlighted that since August 2024 the culling of animals is prohibited in the country, and governmental resources are being allocated to expand clinics and support programmes for stray dogs.”
Given that the mass slaughter of dogs continues, Morocco is in breach of this commitment, and it is FIFA’s duty to hold it to account, withdrawing its right to co-host the tournament should it refuse to cooperate.
Support for A Comprehensive Sterilisation Programme
Homeless dogs and cats exist because of humans, and they have a hard enough time surviving on the streets without being killed in horrific ways. One of the most humane and effective ways to curb their population is to prevent more puppies and kittens from being born by implementing a comprehensive sterilisation programme.
We’re calling for a humane approach to the homeless animal crisis – please join us.
Take Action
In addition to appeals to government authorities, PETA has written to FIFA, asking it not to stand by silently while this devastating extermination occurs on its behalf. Join us and send FIFA a message now!
Personalising your e-mail is best, but please keep it polite. Here’s a template you can use or amend as you wish.