In preparations for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, reports have surfaced claiming that the Moroccan government intends to eliminate approximately 99% of the stray dog population in the country. This initiative is believed to be aimed at enhancing the cleanliness and safety of host cities and tourist areas to attract international visitors, fans, and media.
It is estimated that around three million stray dogs roam the streets of Morocco. Allegations from animal welfare groups suggest that authorities are resorting to brutal methods such as seizing dogs by the neck, loading them onto trucks, and then either poisoning or shooting them before disposing of their bodies in mass graves.
Recent findings labeled Marrakech, a designated World Cup venue, as a “kill center” where dogs are processed in warehouse facilities equipped with hooks and washable flooring. Witnesses in other host cities reported disturbing incidents of dogs being starved before being burned alive at garbage sites.
The International Animal Welfare and Protection Coalition (IAWPC) has raised concerns about Morocco’s history of large-scale animal exterminations preceding major international events. The coalition submitted detailed evidence to FIFA, including photos depicting the mistreatment of dogs through poisoning, starvation, and shooting.
Contrary to these claims, FIFA stated that Morocco had pledged its commitment to animal welfare during the bidding process for the World Cup. The organization is now collaborating with the IAWPC to review Morocco’s proposed regulations. Morocco’s Embassy in London has refuted the allegations, asserting its dedication to humane and sustainable animal management.
Despite official denials, documents obtained by The Athletic indicate that local authorities procured ammunition to address the issue of stray dogs. FIFA’s evaluation report on Morocco’s bid highlighted the country’s animal welfare efforts.
Animal rights group PETA has been vocal in condemning the reported actions, urging FIFA to intervene and cease the dog killings. Hollywood actor Mark Ruffalo has also joined the cause, criticizing the inhumane treatment of dogs in the name of preparing for a global sports event.
The International Animal Coalition has launched a campaign to expose what they describe as the “ugly secret” of Morocco’s tactics in eliminating stray dogs. The coalition alleges that dogs are being killed through various cruel methods, including poisoning, injection, and shooting, with gunmen reportedly patrolling the streets continuously.
The reported dog slaughter has drawn attention from the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) concerning the psychological impact on children exposed to such violence. In a statement, the UNCRC emphasized the need to shield children from all forms of violence, including witnessing violence against animals.