An initiative for the 2026 FIFA World Cup
From June 11 to July 19, 2026, the Men's World Cup will take place in the USA, Mexico, and Canada. What at first glance looks like a tournament in democratic countries, on closer inspection becomes a magnifying glass for human rights abuses. On December 5, the World Cup group draw will take place in Washington, D.C. We want to use this occasion to draw attention to the human rights situation in the three host countries and to remind people that sport carries responsibility.
At the press conference on December 4, experts will speak about the situation in the three countries and human rights responsibilities surrounding major sporting events.
The press conference marks the launch of the “GAME ON! Sport for Human Rights” initiative. As part of the project, high-impact campaigns will be carried out on Austria's sports fields and stadiums during the FIFA World Cup year. Through a variety of activities, we will publicly advocate for a culture of human rights and global justice with young people, clubs, associations, and decision-makers.
When: Thursday, December 4, 2025, 11:00 a.m.
Where: Press Club Concordia (ballroom), Bankgasse 8, A-1010 Vienna
Contact:
Hanna Stepanik, Projektleiterin
fairplay Initiative
Vienna Institute for International Dialogue and Cooperation (VIDC)
+43 1 713 35 94 – 66
stepanik [AT] vidc [DOT] org
