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A recently unveiled requirement for World Cup supporters traveling to the United States to disclose personal social media profile details has been called "profoundly unacceptable."

Mandatory Disclosure for Visa Waiver Applicants

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 maintained in the last five-year period. Until now, providing this information was voluntary.

"These proposed measures are profoundly unacceptable," stated Ronan Evain, executive director of Football Supporters Europe. "Free speech and the right of privacy are universal human rights. No football fan surrenders those rights just because they enter a country."

He added, "This policy introduces a chilling atmosphere of surveillance that directly contradicts the welcoming, open spirit the tournament is meant to embody and it must be rescinded immediately."

Origins in an Earlier Presidential Directive

The proposal stems from an executive order signed by former President Trump in January that seeks "to guarantee that all foreign nationals seeking admission the United States are thoroughly checked to the fullest extent possible."

Official Response and Justification

A spokesperson for US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) provided clarification on the issue. "This is not a change on this front for those coming to the United States," the official said. "This is not a final rule, it is merely the first step in starting a discussion to have additional measures to keep the public secure."

The representative further noted, "The department are continuously evaluating how we screen those entering the country, particularly after the terrorist attack in the capital. The measure is consistent with the earlier Executive Order to vet those who are coming into this country using ESTA by enabling CBP to collect further data from foreign nationals using the visa waiver programme."