Animal rights activits across the world are currently outraged after learning about the mass-culling of street dogs ahead of Fifa World Cup 2030. World-renowned conservationist Dr. Jane Goodall has expressed outrage over the killing of street dogs in Morocco. Welfare groups suggest that up to three million dogs could be killed as part of a street-cleaning effort, sparking widespread criticism.

How are dogs in morocco being killed?

Animal welfare organisations revealed that thousands of stray dogs have already been killed across Morocco, with many more under threat. The International Animal Coalition reported brutal methods, including poisoning with strychnine and shootings by armed gunmen. Dogs are also captured with clamping devices and transported to facilities where they are inhumanely killed. The organization stated that many animals are left to suffer after being wounded, often dying in extreme pain.

FIFA’s announcement in 2023 about the joint hosting of the 2030 World Cup by Morocco, Spain, and Portugal has reportedly intensified the killings. Campaigners claim that these acts are part of Morocco’s effort to clean up streets and make venues more presentable for foreign visitors.

Jane Goodall’s words to FIFA

Dr. Goodall has written to FIFA urging immediate action, condemning the killings as cruel and barbaric. In her letter, she stated: “I was absolutely appalled to see in the news that the Moroccan authorities are engaging in large-scale killings of street dogs as part of an apparent effort to make FIFA World Cup venues more ‘presentable’ to foreign visitors.”

She criticised FIFA for allegedly ignoring detailed evidence presented by the International Animal Coalition. “You must surely be aware of how football fans around the world – many of whom are also animal lovers – will react when they learn of this?” she wrote. Dr. Goodall warned that this issue could lead to boycotts of Morocco and pressure on sponsors like Qatar Airways to withdraw their support.

FIFA under fire

The International Animal Coalition has launched a campaign titled 'Morocco’s Ugly Secret' to bring attention to the killings. The group claims that despite Morocco’s assurances to FIFA that the killings had stopped in August 2024, they continue on a large scale.

Dr. Goodall also warned FIFA of the reputational damage it faces. “If you fail to act, however, FIFA will be known for its complicity in a horrific act of barbarity – on your watch,” she stated. Despite repeated concerns raised by campaigners and activists, FIFA has not yet responded to the allegations.

With the killings escalating and international attention growing, calls for action against these inhumane practices are intensifying. Conservationists and animal lovers around the world are watching closely to see how FIFA and Moroccan authorities address the controversy.