In late last year, the associate immigration minister overturned a decision to deny controversial US commentator Candace Owens a visa to visit New Zealand for a speaking event, following pressure from a local lobby group. Despite being refused entry into Australia due to her controversial views, Owens was granted a visa for New Zealand after the Free Speech Union intervened on her behalf, with ministerial discretion used to overturn the rejection. Australia’s immigration minister cited concerns about Owens’ potential to incite discord and influence violent acts in his decision to deny her entry, while New Zealand ultimately allowed her to visit based on the right to free speech.
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