American academics are adopting security measures similar to those seen years ago when traveling to regions like China. This shift is fueled by concerns about potential repercussions from the U.S. government for expressing dissenting opinions. Incidents involving deported scholars, like Dr. Rasha Alawieh and Mahmoud Khalil's threat of deportation for political activities, mark a troubling trend of targeting academics based on views or affiliations. This rising anxiety is pushing scholars to take drastic steps to protect themselves when traveling internationally.
Some American participants at academic conferences are now using burner phones and minimalist laptops, showing a trend of heightened security awareness against potential government scrutiny.
This trend reflects anxieties about returning home amidst government surveillance that targets dissenting opinions, notably among academics involved in politically sensitive research.
The deportation of Dr. Rasha Alawieh, despite her valid visa, exemplifies the precarious situation many scholars face (including Mahmoud Khalil's controversial and threatening deportation).
These incidents highlight an uncomfortable reality for academics who fear persecution due to their views and affiliations, prompting them to take extreme precautions in their digital lives.
#government-surveillance #academic-freedom #immigration-policy #scholarly-activism #digital-security
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