Key facts
- The Home Office told Andreas Roth his presence "may not be considered to be conducive to the public good."
- The open letter has been signed by more than 1,400 individuals from over 250 academic institutions.
- Fabian Dablander, an assistant professor at the London School of Economics, initiated the letter.
More than 900 academics have signed an open letter urging the UK government to reverse its decision to bar academic Andreas Roth from entering the country, warning the move represents "a grave violation of academic freedom and freedom of expression." Roth, a professor at the University of London, was prevented from traveling to the UK on November 4, 2026, after the Home Office told him his presence "may not be considered to be conducive to the public good."
The letter, initiated by Fabian Dablander, an assistant professor at the London School of Economics, has been signed by more than 1,400 individuals from over 250 academic institutions. It argues that "the ability of scholars to travel, exchange ideas and participate in public debate – including on politically contentious issues – is fundamental to a free and democratic society." The letter adds that "excluding academics because of their political views or the topics they discuss sets a dangerous precedent and risks creating a chilling effect on academic and public discourse."
Roth said he had been "kept in the dark" by UK immigration authorities over the reasons for his electronic travel authorisation being revoked, but suspected it was because of his plans to appear on a panel alongside Huda Ammori from Palestine Action. A Home Office spokesperson said: "Cancelling or refusing an ETA can take place for a range of reasons, including where there are concerns that an individual poses a threat to public safety or seeks to spread extremism. It is not a ban on coming to the UK. Those in this position can still apply for a visa, enabling further consideration of circumstances and suitability for entry to the UK."