Morocco’s Planning to Kill 3 Million Stray Dogs Before FIFA World Cup

Morocco is facing international backlash after reports emerged that the country plans to cull up to three million stray dogs ahead of the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which it is set to co-host with Spain and Portugal. According to Mahipal Singh Chouhan in a January 2025 report for Hindustan Times, the mass killing is part of a so-called “street clean-up” to prepare for the influx of international tourists.

The methods being used have been widely condemned. Reports from The Daily Mail allege the use of toxic strychnine, shootings in public, and even beatings with shovels to kill dogs, sparking outrage among Animal rights organisations. Many of these actions violate Morocco’s own animal welfare laws, but enforcement has been minimal, and local authorities have reportedly allowed the cullings to continue without legal consequences.

Prominent voices have joined the outcry. Jane Goodall, world-renowned primatologist and Animal rights activist, wrote an open letter to FIFA urging the organisation to intervene. She has called for Morocco to be stripped of its hosting duties unless the killings are stopped and humane methods adopted.

Animal groups have long promoted trap-neuter-vaccinate-release (TNVR) as a proven, non-lethal method to control stray populations. But with limited Support and overcrowded shelters, local rescue organisations are overwhelmed. The International Animal Welfare and Protection Coalition is now urging the international community to apply pressure on both Morocco and FIFA to adopt compassionate, lawful solutions.

This situation is a painful reminder of how animals often pay the price for human events. Let’s keep the pressure on FIFA, speak up for voiceless animals, and Support global organisations working to promote humane solutions. Compassion doesn’t stop for convenience.

Video Source: The Daily Guardian/Youtube

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