The activist will soon become a guest at the nationalist student association NSV Leuven. They want to have a lecture with Sellner on April 19 at the KU Leuven auditorium. The leader of the Islamophobic protest movement Generation Identity and co-founder of Die Österreicher will speak about the ‘struggle for identity and its future’. NSV submitted an application for this. But KU Leuven forbids that, in its own words for security reasons.

Recently there has been a lot of criticism about allowing the debate with Vlaams Belang leader Filip Dewiinter, which was hosted by LVSV. KU Leuven allowed it, and lots of police were present to ensure security. So this time the university did see the risk. Accordingly, he notified NSV of his decision that lectures could not be held at the KU Leuven building.

READ ALSO. Debate at KU Leuven sparks protests: “Filip Dewiinter is not welcome here”

“KU Leuven attaches great importance to freedom of expression”, the university said in response. “External organizations frequently use the KU Leuven venue for lectures and events, and we allow all kinds of opinions. Civilized debate should be possible. The physical safety of participants must be guaranteed. Events must also be respectful and must not violate the law.”

Extraordinary

“KU Leuven will never accept or normalize expressions of sexism, racism, threats or deny genocide prescribed by law,” they continued. “Organizations that are later found not to comply with these conditions during the event may be banned from using the KU Leuven location for up to five years. Anyone who violates the law can also be prosecuted.”

Incredible that KU Leuven decided beforehand that an event could not take place. The university does make decisions now, and these are in consultation with city agencies. Martin Sellner had previously been denied entry to the UK for these reasons.