Oxford Union raises free speech concerns over speakers’ entry restriction

Arwa Elrayess, President of the Oxford Union, said she was “deeply concerned” after US political commentators Cenk Uygur and Hasan Piker had their authorisation to visit the UK revoked on the grounds that their appearances would not be “conducive to public good”.

Both commentators have said they were prevented from entering the UK because of their advocacy for Palestinian rights and criticism of Israel. 

In a statement, Elrayess said, “This eleventh-hour call signals much more than democratic decline – it is a direct threat to free expression.”

She added, “The Oxford Union was founded on one principle: that ideas are challenged through debate, not silenced by decree.”

Vowing that the event would continue, Elrayess said, “This event will not be cancelled. The Union will ensure this discussion takes place. Free speech does not require a visa.”

A statement from the President, Arwa Elrayess: pic.twitter.com/3daG29vZtY

— Oxford Union (@OxfordUnion) June 1, 2026