Rima Hassan, a French Member of the European Parliament, was denied entry to Canada on March 29, 2026. This decision came as she was scheduled to speak at two conferences in Montreal, raising significant concerns regarding freedom of expression and political representation.
Initially, Hassan’s request for travel authorization was approved by Canadian authorities. However, this approval was later revoked, citing her failure to disclose a prior visa refusal to Israel and a previous criminal offense. Hassan had been denied entry to Israel in February 2025, which has now become a focal point in her travel complications.
While complaints had been filed against her for glorifying terrorism, she was never convicted. In response to the denial, B’nai Brith Canada and the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs praised the Canadian government’s decision, emphasizing that “Canada is not a platform for those who justify terrorism, glorify violence, and deny Jewish history.”
Hassan, however, contends that the denial was influenced by pro-Israel lobbying organizations. She expressed her frustration, stating, “J’ai été empêchée de me rendre au Canada : une entrave préoccupante à l’action parlementaire et à la liberté d’expression,” which translates to a worrying impediment to parliamentary action and freedom of expression.
Despite the entry denial, Hassan confirmed she will deliver her conferences remotely. La France Insoumise condemned the decision, arguing that it represents a troubling trend of restricting political representatives’ freedom of movement.
The Political Science Student Association of Concordia University expressed outrage over the ban, highlighting the implications for academic discourse and political engagement.
Canadian authorities have not publicly detailed the specific reasons for the entry denial, leaving many questions unanswered. Details remain unconfirmed.
As this situation unfolds, observers are closely monitoring the implications for international political discourse and the ongoing debates surrounding freedom of expression in Canada.