Eddie Mungai

The 2026 FIFA World Cup™️ is committed to leaving a human rights legacy. But what will be done to realize said legacy? Below is a snapshot of deliverables each host city is implementing/intends to implement to improve workers’ rights, create opportunities for youth, promote sustainability, and more. This is not an exhaustive list, but it highlights one or two marquee activities. 

Part 1 (of 3): World Cup Host Cities Advancing Human Rights Legacy 

🇨🇦 Toronto: The Toronto Community Benefits Network (TCBN) and other local organizations successfully urged City Council to adopt a community benefits plan that will see $20 million in contracts awarded to Black, Indigenous and diverse suppliers (Source: Toronto Community Benefits Network)

🇨🇦 Vancouver: The City of Vancouver, along with the Province of British Columbia, Squamish Nation, Tsleil-Waututh Nation, and Musquem, signed an MOU committing to work as partners to host Vancouver World Cup matches and ensure First Nations are positively impacted post-World Cup. This MOU advances reconciliation efforts by including First Nations in the planning of major sporting events (Source: Government of BC)

🇲🇽 Guadalajara: Guadalajara is focused on leveraging the 2026 FIFA World Cup™️ to create a resilient and smarter city by adding wider sidewalks and safe crosswalks. (Source: Mexico Business News)

🇲🇽 Mexico City: Urban improvement efforts are occurring around the area of Banorte Stadium, the venue for World Cup matches in Mexico City, including constructing sustainable housing and adding infrastructure to enhance mobility. (Source: Mexico Business News)

🇲🇽 Monterrey: Monterrey will install new metro lines and add eco-friendly buses. Additionally, the city will expand wastewater treatment facilities. (Source: Mexico Business News)

Part 2 to be published soon.