Morocco Faces Global Backlash as Animal Rights Groups Accuse Authorities of Mass Killing of Stray Dogs Ahead of 2030 World Cup

Reports and shocking images of stray dogs being killed in Morocco have drawn widespread international attention, with animal rights groups claiming the campaign is linked to the country’s preparations for the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

Morocco was confirmed as a co-host alongside Spain and Portugal in 2023, and critics argue the timing of the cull is no coincidence.

Authorities insist their goal is to make cities and tourist areas appear cleaner and safer, especially for international fans and media coverage.

However, animal welfare organizations contend that the methods being used are cruel and inhumane.

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Allegations of Harsh Methods Spark Outrage

The International Animal Welfare and Protection Coalition (IAWPC) and other organizations have published testimony and images alleging severe cruelty.

Claims include dogs being clamped by the neck, loaded into trucks, poisoned, shot, starved for days, and in some cases burned alive.

A report described Marrakech, expected to host several World Cup matches, as a “kill center,” with dogs processed in warehouse facilities equipped with meat hooks and washable flooring.

Witnesses in other cities say animals were deliberately starved before being executed at rubbish depots.

The coalition has submitted a 91-page dossier to FIFA detailing these practices, which include poisonings, shootings, and forced starvation.

Despite this, animal rights advocates question how rigorously FIFA is addressing the allegations.

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Moroccan Authorities Deny Claims but Evidence Raises Questions

Morocco’s Embassy in London has denied the cull, highlighting a Trap, Neuter, Vaccinate, Release program launched in 2019.

Officials cite investments in clinics, veterinary services, and municipal hygiene systems, insisting the country is committed to humane and sustainable animal management.

Yet documents obtained by The Athletic suggest local authorities purchased 1,000 rounds of ammunition in September 2025, allegedly to manage stray dogs.

The timing has raised suspicion that the cull is ongoing despite public denials.

PETA spokesperson Catie Cryar criticized FIFA for not intervening, stating, “Morocco hasn’t attempted to hide the fact that dogs are being poisoned, shot, and burned alive to ‘clean up’ for the 2030 World Cup.”

Tens of thousands of PETA supporters have urged FIFA to withdraw Morocco’s co-hosting rights unless the practice ends.

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The Human Dimension: Children and Violence

Beyond animal welfare, the alleged killings have implications for children and societal ethics.

The UN Committee on the Rights of the Child emphasizes that exposure to animal cruelty can impact the psychological well-being and moral development of minors.

In General Comment 26, issued in 2023, the UNCRC stated: “Children must be protected from all forms of physical and psychological violence and from exposure to violence, such as domestic violence or violence inflicted on animals.”

Critics argue that children witnessing or learning about these killings are at risk of trauma and desensitization to violence.

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FIFA Under Pressure to Act

While FIFA highlighted Morocco’s commitment to animal welfare in its World Cup bid evaluation, questions remain about enforcement.

Advocacy groups are calling for immediate measures, including spay and neuter programs, to address the root causes of stray dog overpopulation instead of resorting to lethal methods.

The International Animal Coalition has launched a campaign titled “Morocco’s Ugly Secret,” aiming to expose the scale and brutality of the alleged culls to the global public.

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What’s Next?

Animal welfare groups are now pressuring FIFA to conduct independent investigations and halt any sanctioned killings.

International media coverage is likely to increase scrutiny on Moroccan authorities, while activists push for humane solutions.

Governments and NGOs may also increase monitoring of the situation ahead of the 2030 World Cup, potentially influencing FIFA’s oversight of host nations.

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Summary

Shocking reports allege Morocco has been conducting mass killings of stray dogs in preparation for the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

Animal welfare organizations claim inhumane methods including poisoning, shootings, and burning.

Moroccan officials deny the cull, citing sterilization and vaccination programs.

The controversy has drawn global condemnation, with FIFA and international advocacy groups facing calls to intervene.

Concerns extend beyond animal welfare to children’s exposure to violence and societal ethics.