A prominent right-wing figure from Austria, known for promoting extremist ideologies, expressed his hope that Canada will allow him entry for an upcoming conference in Hamilton. Martin Sellner, who was banned from the U.K. in 2019 for security reasons, is scheduled to speak at a Dominion Society event advocating for “remigration.”
Sellner faced travel restrictions in the U.S. after it was revealed that the Christchurch mosque shooter had donated money to him. Additionally, German authorities imposed a three-year entry ban on Sellner in 2024 following nationalist gatherings that sparked significant protests.
Canadian officials have not disclosed whether Sellner will be permitted entry, citing privacy laws. Admissibility for entry into Canada is determined by meeting the requirements outlined in the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, which can include reasons such as involvement in violence, terrorism, espionage, or organized crime.
A Hamilton-based expert on anti-racism, Ameil Joseph, suggested that if Sellner is restricted from entering other countries, Canada should consider similar actions. Hamilton Mayor Andrea Horwath has been informing venue owners about the Dominion Society’s beliefs, emphasizing that the city will not rent space to the organization.
The Dominion Society promotes the “great replacement” theory, asserting that white people are being replaced by racialized individuals. The group advocates for mass deportations, including of temporary foreign workers, permanent residents, and individuals born in Canada to non-Canadian citizens.
In response to concerns about Sellner’s potential exclusion from Canada, Daniel Tyrie, chair of the Dominion Society, defended Sellner’s right to assemble peacefully and criticized statements from local officials as politically motivated persecution. However, community members like Joseph highlighted the risks posed by groups promoting divisive ideologies and exploiting economic insecurities to advance their agendas.