SloveniaActivists in Morocco claim that the country systematically kills stray dogs, citing witness accounts and disturbing images from cities like Rabat, Fes, and Marrakesh. Reports indicate that dog carcasses are often discarded into trash bins or rivers. Animal rights organizations believe this mass killing is part of an effort to clean up streets ahead of the 2030 World Cup. Some residents describe workers from the local administration taking dogs to waste incinerators, while others report dogs being shot or buried alive. The International Association for the Welfare and Protection of Animals (IAWPC) says the intensity of dog hunting has increased since Morocco was chosen as a host nation for the World Cup in December 2024. Morocco’s Interior Ministry denies these claims, stating that the country has implemented a program since 2019 to reduce the dog population through sterilization, castration, and vaccination. Similar allegations were made against previous World Cup hosts Brazil and Russia in 2014 and 2018. FIFA confirmed that Morocco committed to protecting animal rights as part of its bid to host the tournament and is working with Moroccan football authorities to ensure compliance.
Bias read (Center): The article presents multiple perspectives—activist claims, eyewitness accounts, and official denials—without overtly favoring any side. It includes statements from both critics and the Moroccan government, providing a balanced view of the situation.
