Canadian academics advised to avoid unnecessary travel to US

ISTANBUL

The Canadian Association of University Teachers (CAUT) on Tuesday issued a warning urging academics to avoid unnecessary travel to the US, citing concerns over border experiences and political developments.

“Academics should carefully consider what information they have, or need to have, on their electronic devices when crossing borders and take actions to protect sensitive information where necessary,” CAUT said.

The association recommended that academics travel to the US “only if essential and necessary,” citing the “rapidly evolving political landscape” in the US and difficulties reported at border crossings.

The group also singled out individuals who should be particularly cautious, including “those who have expressed negative opinions about the current US administration or its policies” and “those whose research could be seen as being at odds with the position of the current US administration.”

CAUT represents more than 72,000 academics, librarians and researchers across Canada, according to its website.

According to Canadian media, data from US Customs and Border Protection showed a roughly 32% decline in the number of travelers entering the US from Canada in March 2025, compared with the same month last year.