Dhaka, Aug. 12 -- FIFA is rolling out a new human rights protocol for the 2026 World Cup in North America, requiring all host committees to prepare action plans to safeguard human rights. But with the tournament less than a year away, advocates remain doubtful about the governing body's commitment.

The framework, which covers issues across multiple jurisdictions, is seen as unprecedented by some experts but criticized by others for lacking enforceable standards and clear guidance. "The plan is just a plan. It's not self-executing," said Jennifer Li, director of Georgetown Law's Center for Community Health Innovation and national coordinator of the Dignity 2026 Coalition.

Several U.S. host committees missed the March deadline for initial...