Overview of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Human Rights Framework

Since 2016, FIFA has committed to uphold internationally recognised human rights, incorporating Article 3 into its Statutes. This commitment aligns with the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs) and is integrated into FIFA’s overall strategy. With the launch of the Strategic Objectives for the Global Game: 2023-2027, FIFA has reinforced its dedication to social responsibility, particularly in human rights.

As part of this initiative, the FIFA World Cup 2026 Sustainability & Human Rights Strategy aims to set new standards while leaving a positive legacy in host countries and cities. The strategy is built upon extensive assessments to identify key human rights issues for the tournament.

Key Highlights of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Human Rights Framework

1. Human Rights action plans for each host city

Each of the 16 host cities will develop its own Human Rights Action Plan in collaboration with local stakeholders and community groups. These plans build on initial frameworks established during the 2019-2021 Host City selection process. The FIFA World Cup 2026 Human Rights Framework serves as a guiding document for local organisers, ensuring that each city creates tailored action plans in consultation with government bodies, non-governmental organisations, and community representatives.

2. Three core focus areas

The FWC26 Human Rights Framework prioritises:

• Inclusion and safeguarding;

• Workers' rights;

• Access to remedy.

3. Who does this Policy apply to?

This policy applies to a wide range of individuals, including:

• Players, officials, workers, and volunteers

• Spectators and local community members

• Groups at higher risk of human rights violations, such as:

  • Indigenous Peoples;

  • Women;

  • Minorities (racial, ethnic, religious, linguistic);

  • Children;

  • Persons with disabilities;

  • Immigrants and migrant workers;

  • Human rights defenders, journalists, and media workers;

  • LGBTQIA2S+ individuals and communities;

  • Refugees, asylum seekers, and underserved populations.

    
    

4. Key Action Areas

FIFA has outlined specific initiatives, including:

• Child protection measures, such as lost-child protocols.

• Awareness and enforcement of safeguarding measures across relevant authorities and entities, including stadium personnel and volunteers;

• Linguistically accessible wrap around survivor supports and trauma informed resources in addition to law enforcement measures;

• Combating human trafficking, through improved identification, prevention, and remediation strategies;

• Secure access to support networks, for victims of human trafficking, sexual assault, and child abuse.

• Responsible use of technology, including AI and surveillance, to ensure ethical data management.

  
  

5. Freedom of assembly, expression, and press

The tournament will uphold the rights to peaceful assembly, freedom of opinion and expression, and freedom of press. Special protections will be provided for journalists, media workers, and human rights defenders.

6. Fair wages and working conditions

Work environments associated with the World Cup must be inclusive, fair, and free from discrimination in terms of pay, hiring, promotions, and workplace policies. Key measures include:

• Prohibiting discrimination in all employment-related activities.

• Equal remuneration for work of equal value without distinction of any kind, in particular guaranteeing women conditions of work not inferior to those enjoyed by men, with equal pay for equal work.

  
  

7. Safeguarding Migrant Workers’ Rights

Migrant workers involved in the event will be protected from exploitation, illegal recruitment fees, and economic coercion. Employers must respect their legal protections and human rights.

8. Grievance and Remediation Mechanisms

A robust grievance mechanism will be in place to address human rights concerns. These mechanisms will be accessible, transparent, and well-publicised, allowing affected individuals to seek justice through both state-based and non-state-based legal processes.

In our opinion, the creation of a Human Rights Framework is a crucial step in ensuring fairness, safety, and dignity for everyone involved in all phases of preparation and celebration of the FIFA World Cup 2026. However, it is important to acknowledge that more work remains to be done. We believe that FIFA should take into account the experience gained by its confederations in organising regional events to ensure a safe and enjoyable tournament for all.