OIPA officially joins the IAWPC – International Coalition against the mass killing of dogs in Morocco ahead of the 2030 World Cup

OIPA ETS is proud to officially announce its membership in the IAWPC – International Animal  Coalition, a global coalition that is actively working to put an end to the mass killing of stray dogs in Morocco in view of the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

OIPA’s entry comes at a time of increasing international concern. According to the coalition, hundreds of thousands of dogs are killed every year in Morocco using extremely cruel methods such as poisoning, shooting, and violent capture, followed by killing in designated facilities.

In recent months, these practices appear to have intensified in connection with preparations for the World Cup. According to the IAWPC, millions of dogs are at risk as part of operations aimed at “cleaning up” cities ahead of the event.

The coalition reports that these killings often take place in public, causing extreme suffering to animals and having a significant impact on communities, particularly on children who are exposed to scenes of violence.

OIPA had already spoken out against these practices, denouncing the situation and calling on the FIFA to intervene, including through awareness-raising initiatives and public mobilization.

The IAWPC is currently in direct contact with FIFA, with the aim of urging concrete and responsible action regarding the situation in Morocco. In this context, OIPA’s membership further strengthens international pressure and contributes to broader media mobilization.

By joining the coalition, OIPA commits to being an active part of this process, not merely an observer but a key actor working to promote concrete change through advocacy, communication, and international coordination.

In particular, OIPA will work alongside IAWPC partners to:

•stop the mass killing of stray dogs;

•promote ethical and effective population management methods;

•apply pressure on Moroccan authorities and international stakeholders;

•strengthen public mobilization and global awareness of the issue.

“OIPA is deeply concerned about what is happening in Morocco,” stated Massimo Pradella, President of OIPA ETS. “The management of stray dogs cannot be based on violence and indiscriminate killing, especially when linked to international events” Pradella added.

The greatness of a nation is not measured solely by its infrastructure, but by its ability to protect the most vulnerable, including animals. “An event that celebrates unity among peoples cannot be overshadowed by actions that contradict the values of respect and civilization,” Pradella concluded.

According to the coalition, the practices currently in place not only represent a serious violation of animal welfare, but also raise significant human rights concerns. Reports indicate that acts of violence and intimidation have been directed at citizens and volunteers working to protect stray dogs, including women activists.

These actions also have a significant impact on minors, who are often exposed to scenes of extreme violence. This situation is in contrast with the principles of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, which protects children from all forms of violence and promotes education based on respect for life and the environment.

OIPA’s entry into the IAWPC therefore marks a concrete step toward coordinated international action aimed at ending these practices and promoting sustainable, science-based, and humane solutions.

As the world prepares for a global event such as the World Cup, the international community must ensure that respect for animals is not sacrificed in the name of image or tourism.