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10 March 2017
The Optical Society Responds to Revised Immigration Ban
10 March 2017
The Optical Society Responds to Revised Immigration Ban
WASHINGTON — The Optical Society (OSA) expresses concern for the revised 6 March 2017 Presidential Executive Order 13780, “Protecting the Nation From Foreign Terrorist Entry Into the United States,” and the impact it will have on scientific freedom. While OSA welcomes the exclusion of Iraq from the list of countries whose citizens will be barred from entering the United States as well as new exemptions added, we believe this order continues to pose a threat to scientific advancement and international collaboration.
Like its predecessor, Executive Order 13780 hinders scientists and their work by restricting their ability to enter the United States to study, attend conferences or pursue research interests. We reiterate our position that, while the need for strong safeguards to the national security of the United States has never been greater than in our current global geo-political climate, OSA once again encourages the Administration to take a more measured approach.
On 31 January 2017, OSA joined 182 other scientific societies on a letter to President Trump urging the Administration to rescind Executive Order 13769 and work in partnership with stakeholders to find a balanced approach to address national security and the need for scientific integrity. OSA remains committed to monitoring the situation and its potential impacts. However, in light of the uncertainty surrounding the new Executive Order, we urge OSA members whose travel is impacted by these orders to contact their embassies and refer to any materials provided by their government for guidance.
About The Optical Society
Founded in 1916, The Optical Society (OSA) is the leading professional organization for scientists, engineers, students and business leaders who fuel discoveries, shape real-life applications and accelerate achievements in the science of light. Through world-renowned publications, meetings and membership initiatives, OSA provides quality research, inspired interactions and dedicated resources for its extensive global network of optics and photonics experts. For more information, visit osa.org/100.
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