Canadian Academics Advised Against Non-Essential U.S. Travel Due to Political Tensions

The Canadian Association of University Teachers (CAUT) has issued a travel advisory urging its members to avoid non-essential travel to the United States due to heightened border scrutiny and political tensions. This advisory particularly targets academics who have expressed dissenting views on the U.S. administration or whose research may conflict with current U.S. policies. CAUT stresses that those with recent travel to countries linked to travel bans, dual citizens, and transgender individuals should exercise extra caution. Reports of Canadian researchers facing political vetting and data inspections at border crossings have contributed to these concerns. The warning marks the first time in over a decade that CAUT has advised against such travel, reflecting a significant change in the travel climate for academics. CAUT encourages members to safeguard sensitive information on their electronic devices when crossing the border.