In 2026, the world will come to Atlanta, Georgia as it hosts matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. For many residents, it’s an exciting moment—a chance to showcase our city on the global stage.

But large international events don’t just bring tourists and celebration. They can also bring serious risks, including labor exploitation, housing displacement, and human trafficking. The question now is whether Atlanta is fully prepared to protect vulnerable workers and communities from these risks. 

The City recently published a Human Rights Action Plan in preparation for hosting the World Cup this Spring. As an Atlanta native, I see the City’s preparations as both an opportunity and also a responsibility. And right now, the City is not taking that responsibility seriously. Atlanta can do better and there’s still time to make changes to strengthen the Action Plan. 

City’s plan all bark and no bite   

Over the last few months, I’ve been working with a small group of organizations in the newly formed coalition Play Fair ATL to encourage the City to strengthen protections ahead of the World Cup.  

We met with Atlanta City Council Member Jason Dozier to highlight how human trafficking intersects with other risks, including loss of income, housing instability and limited access to support services. Addressing these issues is critical to reducing vulnerability to human trafficking and strengthen communities’ resilience both during the World Cup and long after it ends.  

We were pleased when Council Member Dozier introduced a resolution reaffirming the City’s commitment to the Play Fair ATL policy priorities. But the new Human Rights Action Plan has some glaring omissions.  

The Action Plan does include some important anti-trafficking provisions such as preventing recruiters from charging workers fees, ensuring responsible sourcing by vendors, and limiting risky subcontracting practices. These measures are critical for preventing exploitation in industries that will expand rapidly to meet the demands of the World Cup. But to be meaningful in practice, they need teeth.  

Unfortunately, the plan does not clearly explain how these policies will be enforced. I am concerned that without stronger oversight and enforcement, companies may sign on to these principles without changing their practices. Policies alone cannot protect workers — accountability is essential. 

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