By Fatma Younis
Swedish climate academic Andreas Malm has been refused entry to the UK ahead of a planned appearance alongside Palestine Action co-founder Huda Ammori at an event organized by a socialist magazine next Wednesday.
Home Office Cites Public Good Concerns
The Home Office informed Malm that his "presence in the UK is not conducive to the public good," though no further details were provided. The department does not comment on individual cases.
Link to Palestine Action Event
Malm suggested the decision relates to the panel event where he was scheduled to speak about the war in Iran alongside Ammori. Palestine Action has been proscribed as a terrorist organization in the UK, making expressions of support a criminal offense.
Academic Freedom Concerns
Malm, a professor at Lund University and author of "How to Blow Up a Pipeline," emphasized he has not publicly endorsed, promoted, or financially supported Palestine Action. He stated the ban prevents him from conducting scientific work, archival research, and conference participation in the UK.
Broader Context of Entry Bans
The decision follows Irish writer Sally Rooney's October announcement to stop selling her books in Britain over plans to direct royalties to Palestine Action. In June, British authorities barred Turkish-American commentators Cenk Uygur and Hasan Piker from entering for speaking events. The UK has also imposed travel bans on far-right Israeli ministers and barred Israeli nationals from a London defense studies college.
Legal Challenge Pending
The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear an appeal next week regarding the proscription of Palestine Action under counter-terrorism laws.
