As the World Cup continues, Shakira is urging viewers to contribute to the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund. The goal post for the fund is set at $100 million with $500,000 going to children whose education has been impacted by the recent earthquakes in Venezuela, the musician shared in a social media video.
“Today, millions of children are growing up without the education and opportunities they deserve,” Shakira said Friday. “That’s why I’m so proud to support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund. I’m also pleased to share that the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund will dedicate $500,000 to support organizations in Venezuela that are helping children whose education has been disrupted by this terrible tragedy. We’ll invite trusted local organizations already leading the relief effort to apply for funding to help children get back into the classroom, support teachers, and restore access to learning.”
On Wednesday, June 24, Venezuela was struck by two powerful earthquakes just minutes apart. According to CNN, more than 1,700 people have died with rescue efforts still underway.
Shakira went on to call on world leaders to extend their support for the cause as well. “Prime Minister Carney of Canada has already stepped forward to support this campaign,” she said. “I hope that other leaders will soon join him, including Prime Minister Montenegro of Portugal, President Macron of France, and Chancellor Merz of Germany. If you believe every child deserves the chance to dream, please join us.”
In an open letter, former political leaders from Austria, Sweden, New Zealand, Ireland, and more backed this call for support. “Long after the final match is played, children will still need opportunities to learn, grow, and fulfill their potential,” the letter reads. “For that to happen, they need more than a seat in a classroom. They need the meals, health, protection, and support that allow them to stay in school and make the most of it. The FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund campaign offers a chance to ensure that the spirit of the World Cup lives on in their lives.”
On July 19, Global Citizen will produce the inaugural FIFA World Cup 2026 Final Halftime Show, curated by Coldplay’s Chris Martin, during which Shakira will take the stage at New York New Jersey Stadium, or MetLife Stadium, as one of three performers alongside BTS and Madonna.
“I’ve spent my life doing two things — making songs and building schools. At the FIFA World Cup, those two paths come together,” Shakira shared in a statement in May. “Standing alongside Madonna and BTS, I’ll be performing ‘Dai Dai,’ the song I created for this World Cup and for the kids around the world we will reach with the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund. My hope is that on the world’s biggest stage, the importance of investing in children’s education steals the show!”