Britain bans 'Great Replacement' writer for offensive content — while thousands being jailed for speech violations

The UK has barred French philosopher and author Renaud Camus from entering the country, citing his presence as "not conducive to the public good," the Home Office confirmed.

Camus, 78, known for his controversial "Great Replacement" theory, was scheduled to speak at a conference organized by the Homeland Party in London.

The Home Office declined to provide specific reasons for the ban, issued via a rejected Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) application, but the decision follows scrutiny of Camus' writings, which claim Europe’s native populations are being deliberately replaced by migrants.

His 2011 book, Le Grand Remplacement, has been widely criticized for fuelling anti-immigration sentiment and far-right ideologies. Camus’ publisher, Vauban Books, condemned the ban, calling it a "confirmation that the UK has abandoned principles of liberal democracy."

Camus announced plans to appeal the decision with support from the Free Speech Union, a British advocacy group.

The ban comes amid heightened UK government efforts to suppress free speech. According to a 2025 article by The Times, UK police made approximately 12,183 arrests in 2023 under Section 127 and Section 1 of the Malicious Communications Act, equating to about 33 arrests per day.

This figure includes arrests for messages causing "annoyance," "inconvenience," or "anxiety."

Critics, including some X users, argue the decision on Camus further stifles free speech, while supporters praised the move, stating, "Hate doesn’t get a visa." The Homeland Party, a minor nationalist group, expressed disappointment, claiming the ban undermines open discourse.