The scientist was traveling to Houston for a conference when his phone was searched
Mar 20, 2025
A French scientist traveling to Houston for a conference was denied entry to the U.S. after immigration officers searched his phone and found messages critical of the Trump administration. U.S. authorities reportedly accused the researcher of spreading “hateful and conspiratorial messages” and mentioned an FBI investigation, though charges were later dropped.
Key takeaways
- The incident took place on March 9, as the scientist was traveling for a conference near Houston.
- U.S. authorities allegedly accused him of spreading “hateful and conspiratorial messages.”
- France’s research minister, Philippe Baptiste, condemned the decision, defending academic freedom.
- Baptiste has criticized U.S. research policy and recently encouraged American scientists to move to France.
Get the full story at the Guardian
