Animal rights groups condemn Morocco for alleged dog culling amid FIFA World Cup preparations

Animal rights organizations have accused Morocco of conducting inhumane dog culls as part of its preparations to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup, according to a report by The Mirror.

The International Animal Coalition (IAC), an alliance of 20 animal welfare groups, claims that both stray and pet dogs are being poisoned with strychnine. They also allege that some dogs are being shot, while others are trapped using clamping devices, thrown into trucks, and exterminated in ways considered inhumane.

According to the IAC, these culling activities have intensified since Morocco was selected as a World Cup host in 2023. The organization fears that up to three million more dogs could be at risk as the country ramps up preparations for the global event.

This is not the first time a country has faced backlash for culling dogs ahead of a FIFA tournament. In 2018, Russia was criticized by animal rights groups for allegedly killing thousands of dogs before hosting the World Cup. Similarly, a plan to cull stray dogs in Ukraine ahead of Euro 2012 sparked public outrage.

Animal rights advocates argue that instead of killing dogs, countries should focus on humane alternatives like vaccination, sterilization, and rehoming.

The IAC has called on FIFA to intervene and protect the dogs in Morocco before the FIFA Congress ratifies Morocco's hosting status on December 11th.

“This is unacceptable, and many football fans will be outraged to hear about it,” said Les Ward, Chair of the IAC. “FIFA must act now to stop these cruel killings. Until this issue is addressed, Morocco should be suspended as a World Cup co-host.”