Candace Owens

Candace Owens: Kiwi Visa Denial Sends Shockwaves – Is Free Speech Under Attack?

Candace Owens denied a visa to New Zealand just after an Australia ban! What's next, a world tour with no tickets?

Controversial conservative commentator Candace Owens has recently found herself on the wrong side of the immigration laws in not one, but two Oceanic nations. Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has made headlines by denying Owens entry into the country, following her refusal of entry to Australia. Owens had applied for an Entertainers Work Visa to speak at an event in Auckland but fell victim to her geographical misadventures rooted in her inflammatory rhetoric. In a world where opinions can spark debates as heated as a hangi, this incident raises a significant question regarding freedom of speech versus public safety.

Owens, known for her right-wing views and stimulating commentary, is no stranger to controversy. The Free Speech Union, a group championing free expression, plans to challenge INZ’s decision, igniting discussion about whether their actions set a dangerous precedent. While it’s common for countries to restrict entry for individuals whose actions might provoke unrest, denying entry based on someone’s previous statements can be somewhat of a slippery slope. It’s like turning a blind eye to your drunken uncle at the family barbecue – is censoring him the best course of action, or does it just escalate the drama?

The New Zealand ban follows her recent entry denial by Australia, marking her as a tricky addition to the international guest list, especially when her events have been known to ruffle more than just feathers. With two countries slamming the door on her, it begs the question: will other nations follow suit? It raises eyebrows, especially considering cultural perspectives on free speech differ vastly around the globe. Will Owens just end up being the unwitting poster girl for the controversial ‘ban the bans’ movement?

In an age where social media can turn a quiet afternoon into a shouting match over brunch, the Owens saga highlights the ongoing clash between freedom of expression and the right of countries to maintain public order. Interestingly, New Zealand is known for its generally open stance on immigration, but this case has shown it can flip the script when it deems necessary. Furthermore, did you know that New Zealand was one of the first countries in the world to introduce women’s suffrage in 1893? Just goes to show, no matter how spicy the debates get today, the Kiwis have always been ready to challenge norms!