Trump's Controversial Policy for World Cup Visitors to Reveal Social Media Activity Described as 'Alarming'

A recently unveiled mandate for soccer tournament supporters journeying to the US to hand over their social media account information has been branded "deeply troubling."

Mandatory Submission for ESTA Travelers

According to the proposal, visitors from 42 countries—such as the UK—who use the visa waiver program would be required to provide details about social media accounts they have held in the last five-year period. Until now, providing this data was voluntary.

"The US government's announced plans are profoundly unacceptable," stated Ronan Evain, head of Football Supporters Europe. "Freedom of expression and the right of privacy are universal human rights. No supporter surrenders those rights just because they enter a country."

He continued, "The measure creates a chilling atmosphere of monitoring that directly contradicts the welcoming, open spirit the tournament is meant to embody and it must be withdrawn at once."

Roots in an Previous Presidential Directive

The plan stems from an executive order signed by former President Trump in January that seeks "to ensure that all aliens seeking admission the United States are vetted and screened to the fullest extent possible."

Government Statement and Reasoning

A spokesperson for the border agency provided clarification on the issue. "This is not a change on this subject for those traveling to the country," the official said. "This is not a implemented policy, it is merely the initial phase in initiating a process to have additional measures to keep the public secure."

The representative further noted, "We are constantly looking at how we vet those entering the country, particularly after the recent attack in the capital. This new proposal is in line with the earlier Executive Order to thoroughly check those who are entering this country using ESTA by enabling CBP to collect additional information from non-US citizens applying through the visa waiver programme."