Morocco is reportedly planning to kill three million stray dogs before the 2030 FIFA World Cup. The country aims to “clean up” its streets for the prestigious event, but this plan has ignited global criticism, especially from animal rights activists.

Why is Morocco planning to kill off stray dogs?

The plan by Morocco to kill millions of stray dogs has been made public, and it's causing a massive uproar. Authorities argue the initiative is necessary to maintain the cleanliness and safety of cities before the World Cup. However, the country's efforts to control the stray dog population have sparked anger and concern from animal lovers around the world.

Jane Goodall speaks out against Morocco’s dog killing

The famous conservationist and animal rights activist, Jane Goodall, has been very vocal against Morocco's proposal. She wrote an open letter to FIFA's Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom, stating her shock and outrage over the reports she received from the International Animal Coalition. 

She said, “I was shocked to learn from the International Animal Coalition about detailed dossiers documenting these acts.”

She even asked how the football fans would feel when they knew about such cruelty, while most of the fans are animal lovers. She wrote that FIFA could face backlash and damage its reputation if the issue is not tackled. 

If you fail to act, FIFA will be known for its complicity in a horrific act of barbarity - on your watch,” she wrote.

What is the International Animal Coalition saying?

The International Animal Coalition has launched a campaign to expose what they are calling "Morocco's ugly secret." According to the coalition, stray dogs are being poisoned with a deadly substance called strychnine or shot by gunmen. The group also claims that dogs are being trapped in devices and transported to facilities where they are killed inhumanely.

Even though Morocco's government recently stated that its culling campaign against dogs is over in August 2024, the group still believes killings are on for almost two years following FIFA's official statement last 2023.

Are there smarter ways of containing stray dog' populations?

Jane Goodall and animal rights groups believe there are humane alternatives to controlling street dog populations. Goodall emphasized that many reputable international organizations are ready to help Morocco implement more compassionate solutions. “There are many humane alternatives to controlling street dog populations and a number of reputable international organizations that are happy to assist the Moroccan authorities in implementing such programs,” she said.

Why should FIFA step in?

Campaigners are urging FIFA to intervene and prevent further killings. If the situation is ignored, FIFA could face a major public relations disaster. Goodall even suggested that Morocco’s right to host the 2030 World Cup should be reconsidered until the killings stop.

“There is simply no excuse for the awful campaign of cruelty that is being executed in football's name,” she added.