The 2026 World Cup is around the corner, but where is FIFA’s child safeguarding policy?

FIFA has issued child safeguarding commitments ahead of the 2026 World Cup, but the policy framework lacks enforcement teeth and fails to address the distinct vulnerabilities children face during mass sporting events, according to analysis by child protection experts.

The commitments appear substantial on paper. They include pledges to protect minors from exploitation, abuse, and trafficking. However, the policy documents remain vague and contain no binding enforcement mechanisms. FIFA has not designated responsibility for monitoring compliance or outlined consequences for violations.

Sports mega-events create particular risks for children. Tournament hosting concentrates large populations in specific regions, increases commercial activity, and attracts organized crime networks. The 2026 World Cup will span the United States, Canada, and Mexico, complicating jurisdictional oversight and cross-border enforcement.

Current FIFA policies fail to address these event-specific dangers. They do not require background checks for all personnel with child contact. They do not mandate reporting protocols aligned with host nation laws. They do not establish child-centered complaint mechanisms or independent oversight bodies.

The gaps matter operationally. During previous tournaments, documented cases of child trafficking and exploitation occurred despite existing guidelines. NGOs and law enforcement agencies reported that FIFA's framework provided insufficient guidance for identifying and reporting abuse.

Experts recommend FIFA establish independent monitoring teams with enforcement authority, implement mandatory safeguarding training for all tournament staff, and create transparent reporting systems accessible to children. Host nations should adopt uniform child protection standards aligned with FIFA requirements rather than operating under separate jurisdictions.

The 2026 World Cup presents an opportunity to establish binding standards. Without enforcement mechanisms and event-specific risk assessment, FIFA's commitments remain symbolic rather than protective.