A far-right Austrian individual with white nationalist views, who has faced permanent bans from entering the United Kingdom and the U.S., is now hoping for entry into Canada to speak at a conference in Hamilton later this month. Martin Sellner, known for his extremist narratives, is scheduled as a featured speaker at the Dominion Society’s conference on August 29, which promotes “remigration,” a concept advocating for the mass deportation of immigrants.
Sellner was prohibited from entering the U.K. in 2019 due to security concerns, with the government citing him as a significant threat to their efforts against extremism. His travel permit to the U.S. was also revoked in the same year after it was revealed that the Christchurch mosque shooter had donated funds to him. The shooter, responsible for the tragic events in New Zealand in 2019, supported Sellner financially. In 2024, German authorities imposed a three-year entry ban on Sellner following protests sparked by a nationalist gathering.
Despite questions regarding Sellner’s admissibility to Canada, Canadian officials have not disclosed any information due to privacy laws. The Immigration and Refugee Protection Act outlines the criteria for entry into Canada, and individuals may be deemed inadmissible for reasons such as involvement in violence, terrorism, espionage, or organized crime.
Sellner expressed his optimism about being allowed into Canada for the conference organized by the Dominion Society. However, anti-racism scholar Ameil Joseph suggested that Canada should consider restricting Sellner’s access, given the restrictions imposed by other countries.
Hamilton Mayor Andrea Horwath emphasized that there is no place for hate, racism, or discrimination in Hamilton and confirmed that the city would not provide space for the Dominion Society’s activities. The Dominion Society advocates for controversial ideas like the “great replacement” conspiracy theory, promoting anti-immigration sentiments and mass deportations.
Experts warn that groups like the Dominion Society exploit economic anxieties to push their narratives, which target non-white populations under the guise of immigration policy. While Dominion Society members defend their right to assemble and discuss their views, critics argue that these discussions can fuel polarization and potentially incite violence.
In light of these developments, concerns are growing about the rise of white nationalist ideologies and the need for vigilance against extremism in the community.