New Zealand immigration officials have reversed their decision to deny U.S. conservative commentator Candace Owens entry into the country, citing the importance of free speech. Owens had initially been banned from entering New Zealand after her visa was rejected in November due to her exclusion from Australia, where she was barred for controversial comments on Nazi medical experiments and other issues.
Owens, known for her outspoken views on topics such as Black Lives Matter, vaccines, and immigration, had planned to speak at events in Auckland, New Zealand, and in several Australian cities in early 2024. However, Australian authorities blocked her from entering due to her inflammatory remarks, including her comments about the Holocaust and Muslims.
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| New Zealand reverses visa ban for US conservative influencer Candace Owens |
After appealing the visa decision, New Zealand's Associate Immigration Minister Chris Penk granted Owens a visa, emphasizing the role of free speech in the decision. Despite this victory in New Zealand, Owens remains barred from entering Australia.
Rocksman, the Sydney-based promoter of the tour, praised New Zealand's decision as a win for free speech, and Owens herself expressed hope that the reversal signaled progress toward a world where people can share their views freely. The tour continues to sell tickets in both countries.
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