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A recently unveiled mandate for soccer tournament fans traveling to the US to disclose personal social media account information has been branded "deeply troubling."

Mandatory Submission for Visa Waiver Travelers

According to the proposal, tourists from 42 countries—such as the UK—who use the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) would be required to submit details about online accounts they have maintained in the last five-year period. Previously, submitting this data was voluntary.

"The US government's proposed measures are deeply concerning," stated Ronan Evain, executive director of Football Supporters Europe. "Freedom of expression and the right of privacy are fundamental rights. No football fan gives up those rights just because they enter a country."

He added, "This policy creates a climate of fear of surveillance that directly contradicts the inclusive atmosphere the tournament is supposed to embody and it must be withdrawn immediately."

Origins in an Earlier Executive Order

The plan stems from an presidential directive signed by former President Trump in January that seeks "to guarantee that all aliens seeking admission the United States are thoroughly checked to the fullest extent feasible."

Official Response and Reasoning

A representative for the border agency provided context on the matter. "Nothing has changed on this front for those coming to the United States," the spokesperson said. "It is not a implemented policy, it is simply the initial phase in starting a discussion to have additional measures to protect the public secure."

The spokesperson further noted, "We are continuously evaluating how we screen those entering the country, particularly after the recent attack in Washington DC. The measure is consistent with the January 2025 Executive Order to thoroughly check those who are entering this country using ESTA by enabling CBP to gather additional information from foreign nationals using the visa waiver programme."