"Both the journalists and the outlet deserve thanks for this comprehensive and informative news piece."
Dear CBC editorial newsroom, Ms. Ahmed and Mr. Wong,
I’m writing on behalf of Canadians for Justice and Peace in the Middle East (CJPME, https://www.cjpme.org) to express appreciation about the article titled “Palestinian football officials worry Canada won't approve visas in time for FIFA meeting” posted on April 18, 2026.
Both the journalists and the outlet deserve thanks for this comprehensive and informative news piece.
The article sheds light on Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) processes in issuing final visa decisions for the upcoming FIFA meeting in Canada, drawing on perspectives from a variety of stakeholders, including the IRCC itself, the Palestinian Football Association, the Lebanese Football Association, a sports law expert, and an immigration lawyer - noting that FIFA and Canada Soccer were contacted but failed to respond.
Importantly, the article also touched on the FIFA sanctions levied upon the Israel Football Association, given their ongoing violations, including but not limited to the fact that Israeli football clubs are located in illegal settlements in Palestinian territory of the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem.
I encourage CBC to continue to draw attention to perspectives and issues that are often sidelined in Canadian mainstream media.
Sincerely,
Alison Jenkins