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A recently unveiled requirement for soccer tournament fans traveling to the United States to disclose personal social media account information has been called "profoundly unacceptable."

Compulsory Submission for ESTA Applicants

According to the proposal, visitors from dozens of nations—such as the UK—who use the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) would be required to provide details about social media accounts they have held in the past five years. Until now, providing this information was voluntary.

"These proposed measures are profoundly unacceptable," stated Ronan Evain, executive director of Football Supporters Europe. "Freedom of expression and the right of privacy are fundamental rights. No supporter surrenders those rights just because they cross a border."

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that directly contradicts the welcoming, open spirit the tournament is supposed to represent and it must be rescinded immediately."

Origins in an Earlier Executive Order

The proposal follows an executive order issued by Donald Trump in January that aims "to guarantee that all foreign nationals wishing to enter the United States are thoroughly checked to the fullest extent possible."

Government Response and Justification

A spokesperson for the border agency provided context on the issue. "This is not a change on this front for those coming to the country," the official said. "It is not a implemented policy, it is simply the first step in initiating a process to have additional measures to keep the public safe."

The representative added, "We are continuously evaluating how we screen those coming into the country, particularly after the terrorist attack in the capital. This new proposal is in line with the January 2025 Executive Order to thoroughly check those who are coming into this country using the visa waiver system by enabling CBP to gather additional information from foreign nationals applying through the ESTA program."