According to the groups, the United States government has issued a series of executive orders and policy changes that violate both U.S. and international human rights law. These actions pose a threat to non-citizens, including the estimated 1.5 million foreign visitors attending the Club World Cup and 2.6 million visitors projected to attend the Men's World Cup.

The groups have reported increased immigration enforcement actions, abusive Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations, and broader border restrictions, which have contributed to widespread fear and uncertainty. The civil society groups have called on Infantino to use his influence and power to make a difference and ensure the rights of individuals attending the tournament are protected.

Infantino's relationship with President Trump has drawn attention, and the groups want him to use his position to affect Trump's decision-making ahead of the World Cup. Jamil Dakwar, director of the ACLU's Human Rights Program, has spoken out about the rights of those attending the tournament, stating that the Trump administration has aggressively pursued a systematic anti-human rights campaign.

Nick McGeehan, co-director of FairSquare, has also commented on the role of FIFA and how they have remained complacent in the face of these concerns. He emphasized that this is a significant intervention from U.S. civil society, which leaves FIFA in no doubt about their profound concerns regarding the deterioration of the rights climate in the U.S. and FIFA's role in that regard.

The civil society groups have co-signed the letter, which includes the 105-year-old American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and unions based in host cities from all around the country. They hope that Infantino will use his power to make a positive impact and ensure the rights of individuals attending the World Cup are respected.