Fact Check: FIFA aware of Morocco's dog culling since at least 2023.

Fact Check: FIFA Aware of Morocco's Dog Culling Since at Least 2023

What We Know

Reports indicate that FIFA has been aware of the culling of stray dogs in Morocco since at least 2023. A coalition of animal rights groups, including Eurogroup for Animals and Four Paws, has written to FIFA urging the organization to intervene against the culling practices that have reportedly escalated as Morocco prepares to co-host the 2030 World Cup. The letter highlights that Morocco has a history of managing stray dog populations through humane methods, specifically a "Trap, Neuter, Vaccinate, Release" (TNVR) program established in 2019, but claims that authorities have shifted towards culling instead (source-1).

In March 2023, the European Link Coalition (ELC), a UK-based NGO, met with senior FIFA officials to present evidence of the rise in dog culling in Morocco, indicating that FIFA was informed of the situation at that time (source-7). The Moroccan government has stated its commitment to humane solutions, but animal rights advocates argue that the current practices contradict national laws and international standards for animal welfare (source-4).

Analysis

The claim that FIFA is aware of Morocco's dog culling practices since at least 2023 is supported by multiple credible sources. The letter from animal rights groups to FIFA explicitly states their concerns about the culling and references Morocco's legal obligations to manage stray populations humanely. This suggests that FIFA has received direct communication regarding the issue, which aligns with the timeline established by the ELC's meeting with FIFA officials in March 2023 (source-1, source-7).

The reliability of the sources is high, as they include reports from established animal rights organizations and reputable news outlets. However, it is important to note that FIFA has not publicly confirmed its awareness of the culling or its plans to address the issue, which raises questions about the organization's accountability and response to animal welfare concerns (source-4).

Conclusion

The evidence supports the claim that FIFA has been aware of the culling of stray dogs in Morocco since at least 2023. The involvement of animal rights groups and the documented meeting between FIFA officials and the ELC provide a clear timeline and context for this awareness. Therefore, the verdict is True.