New Zealand Reverses Candace Owens Visa Ban Citing Free Speech

The decision overturns an earlier ban tied to her exclusion from Australia over controversial remarks about the Holocaust and other issues.

New Zealand's Associate Immigration Minister Chris Penk overturned a prior decision to deny Candace Owens entry, emphasizing the importance of free speech.
Owens was initially barred under a law preventing entry to individuals excluded from other countries, following Australia's October ban on her visa.
Australia's Immigration Minister cited Owens' remarks downplaying Holocaust atrocities and claiming Muslims started slavery as reasons for her exclusion.
Critics in New Zealand, including the Holocaust Centre of New Zealand, expressed concern over Owens' history of divisive rhetoric and conspiracy theories.
The reversal allows Owens to proceed with her planned speaking tour in Auckland, though her Australian events remain uncertain due to the existing ban.