British conspiracist David Icke has been banned from entering dozens of European countries for two years because he «poses a threat to public order».
It is part of restrictions placed on him by Dutch authorities to stop him from attending a planned weekend demonstration in Amsterdam.
The former footballer has already been removed from Facebook and Twitter for spreading misinformation about the COVID-19 pandemic.
His claims have been amplified by far-right Dutch politicians.
Dutch Justice Minister Dilan Yeṣilgöz-Zegerius told reporters on Friday that the fundamental rights to freedom of speech and the right to protest were «not limitless».
A letter from immigration authorities said, «there are concrete indications that [Icke’s] arrival in the Netherlands poses a threat to public order.»
The Netherlands order also bans Icke from 26 countries in the EU’s passport-free Schengen travel zone.
Icke wrote on his website that the move was an «extraordinary, over-the-top response» from «the Dutch fascist regime».
He had been expected to address a demonstration on Sunday by an anti-authority group. Law enforcement authorities have said the gathering will draw far-left counter-demonstrations and lead to public unrest.
In 2019, Australian authorities also cancelled Icke’s visa and refused him entry to the country ahead of a speaking tour.
Additional sources • AFP