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A recently unveiled requirement for soccer tournament fans journeying to the United States to hand over personal social media account information has been branded "deeply troubling."

Mandatory Disclosure for ESTA Travelers

Under the plan, visitors from dozens of nations—such as the UK—who use the visa waiver program would be obliged to provide details about online accounts they have maintained in the past five years. Previously, submitting this information was optional.

"The US government's proposed measures are deeply concerning," stated Ronan Evain, executive director of Football Supporters Europe. "Free speech and the right of privacy are universal human rights. No football fan gives up those rights just because they cross a border."

He added, "This policy introduces a climate of fear of surveillance that fundamentally opposes the inclusive atmosphere the tournament is supposed to embody and it must be rescinded at once."

Roots in an Previous Executive Order

The proposal stems from an executive order signed by former President Trump in January that aims "to ensure that all aliens wishing to enter the US are vetted and screened to the maximum degree feasible."

Official Response and Justification

A representative for the border agency offered clarification on the issue. "Nothing has changed on this front for those traveling to the country," the official said. "It is not a implemented policy, it is merely the initial phase in starting a discussion to have new policy options to keep the American people secure."

The representative further noted, "The department are continuously evaluating how we screen those entering the country, especially after the terrorist incident in the capital. This new proposal is in line with the January 2025 directive to vet those who are coming into this country using ESTA by enabling CBP to collect further data from non-US citizens using the visa waiver programme."