Animal rights advocate Jane Goodall has condemned Morocco for the planned slaughter of 3 million stray dogs ahead of the 2030 World Cup, calling on FIFA to intervene. Reports indicate that thousands of stray dogs have already been killed across North Africa in brutal “cleansing” operations meant to beautify cities for soccer fans. Goodall’s letter to FIFA warns that ignoring these “horrible acts of barbarity” could damage the organization’s reputation. Activists claim inhumane methods such as poisoning and shooting are being used, and pressure is mounting for immediate action to halt the killings and explore humane alternatives for stray population control.
A top conservationist has condemned Morocco and called on FIFA to take action over the slaughter of 3 million stray dogs ahead of the 2030 World Cup.
Activists claim animals could be killed in brutal “cleansing” operations meant to make the city look more presentable to visiting soccer fans.
Thousands of stray dogs have already been slaughtered across North Africa, according to reports, and there are fears the killings are escalating.
Prominent animal rights campaigner Jane Goodall has written to the International Football Federation, accusing it of turning a blind eye to what she calls “horrible acts of barbarity” and demanding immediate action. sent.
In a letter to FIFA Secretary-General Matthias Grafström, Goodall said he was appalled to see Moroccan authorities involved in the large-scale killings and said the plan was to be carried out in August 2024. It is said to have been suspended.
“I am equally appalled to learn that the IAWPC (International Union for Animals) has presented me with detailed documentation documenting these horrific acts, most of which were carried out in the most brutal and cruel ways imaginable. “They seem to be ignoring them, even though they are being done.”
The animal rights activist then wondered how soccer fans around the world would react if they learned about the brutality faced by helpless animals before matches.
“You probably know how soccer fans around the world (many of whom are also animal lovers) will react when they find out about this,” she wrote.
Prominent animal rights campaigner Jane Goodall has written to FIFA, accusing it of turning a blind eye to what she calls “horrible acts of barbarism” and calling for immediate action.
Thousands of stray dogs have already been slaughtered across North Africa, according to reports, and there are fears the killings are escalating.
Photo: Slaughtered dogs piled into trucks during mass slaughter
Stray dog wrapped in warm blanket after being rescued from the street
Photo: Stray dogs brought to a mini-sanctuary in Morocco
“Furthermore, FIFA itself will be in the spotlight again. I know you are working hard to restore FIFA’s reputation in the wake of recent scandals. But if you If we do not take action, FIFA will be known for participating in horrific acts of barbarity on your watch.
“I urge Morocco to ensure that the killings are stopped, including by notifying Morocco that the tournament will be suspended until this happens.”
“There are many humane alternatives to controlling the stray dog population, and there are also a number of reputable international organizations willing to assist the Moroccan authorities in implementing such programs.
“There is absolutely no excuse for the terrible atrocities being committed in the name of football. We hope that we will earn the respect and gratitude of soccer-loving people around the world.”
MailOnline has contacted FIFA for comment.
The International Union for Animals has launched a campaign to expose what it calls “Morocco’s ugly secret”, detailing the horrific methods used to kill stray dogs.
They claim dogs are being poisoned with strychnine, injected directly into their bodies, or fed.
Armed groups reportedly patrol the streets 24 hours a day, shooting animals and often leaving the injured to die in agony.
Other dogs were reportedly snared with clamping devices, thrown into trucks and taken to facilities where they were inhumanely killed.
The coalition claims that the number of killings has increased dramatically since FIFA’s 2023 announcement, even though Moroccan authorities claimed the initiative was halted in August 2024.
FIFA has yet to respond to the allegations, but critics have warned that the organization could face a PR disaster if they go unheeded.
Goodall’s letter added: “FIFA has worked hard to restore its reputation following past scandals, and failure to act will undermine the progress made.”
As pressure mounts and anger grows, activists are calling for immediate intervention to stop the massacre and protect Morocco’s stray dogs from further harm.
