Reports suggest that the Moroccan government is planning to eliminate 99% of stray dogs in preparation for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which Morocco is co-hosting with Spain and Portugal. The mass extermination of approximately three million dogs is allegedly aimed at enhancing the cleanliness and safety of host cities and tourist areas to attract international visitors, fans, and media.
Morocco is home to an estimated three million stray dogs living on the streets. Activists and animal welfare groups have raised concerns over the reported brutal methods being used by Moroccan authorities, including seizing dogs by the neck, transporting them in trucks, and either poisoning or shooting them before disposing of their bodies in mass graves.
Recent documentation described Marrakech, a designated World Cup venue, as a “kill center” where dogs are processed in warehouse facilities equipped with meat hooks and washable flooring. Witnesses from other host cities have claimed that dogs are left without food for days and then burned alive in waste disposal sites.
The International Animal Welfare and Protection Coalition (IAWPC) has accused Morocco of engaging in large-scale animal killings ahead of major global events, suggesting that organizations like FIFA are complicit in enabling such actions. The coalition has presented evidence to FIFA, including photographs showcasing the poisoning, starvation, and shooting of dogs.
In response, a FIFA spokesperson stated that Morocco had emphasized its commitment to animal welfare during the bidding process for the 2030 FIFA World Cup. FIFA is now working with local authorities to ensure that these commitments are upheld. Additionally, FIFA is collaborating with the IAWPC to review Morocco’s proposed regulations.
Despite Morocco’s denial of dog culling plans, leaked documents reveal that local authorities procured ammunition to address the issue of stray dogs. FIFA, in evaluating Morocco’s bid, acknowledged the country’s animal welfare efforts.
Animal rights organization PETA has condemned the reported actions, urging FIFA to intervene and stop the killing of dogs in preparation for the World Cup. Actor Mark Ruffalo has supported the campaign to halt the killings, emphasizing the need for humane solutions and compassion over violence.
The International Animal Coalition has launched a campaign to expose what it calls “Morocco’s ugly secret,” shedding light on the cruel methods used to eliminate stray dogs, including poisoning and shooting. The coalition alleges a significant increase in killings since FIFA’s announcement in 2023, despite official claims that the initiative was halted in 2024.
The UN Committee on the Rights of the Child has expressed concern over the impact of the reported dog slaughter on children’s well-being and moral development. The committee emphasized the need to protect children from violence, including exposure to animal cruelty.
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