French Scientist Denied U.S. Entry Over Private Criticism of Trump Policies

The French government has condemned the incident, emphasizing the importance of academic freedom and free speech in light of U.S. border practices.

A French scientist traveling to a Houston conference was denied entry to the U.S. after border officials found private messages critical of Trump administration science policies.
The scientist's phone and computer were searched during a random border inspection, leading officials to classify the messages as potentially threatening.
U.S. authorities confiscated the scientist's work materials and deported him back to Europe on March 10, 2025.
French Research Minister Philippe Baptiste criticized the decision, reaffirming France's commitment to academic freedom and free expression.
The incident has raised broader concerns about privacy, free speech, and the discretionary power of U.S. border officials under the Trump administration.