Canada to Temporarily Ban Entry for Travelers Recently in Congo Despite UN Advice

Canada will temporarily deny entry to most foreign nationals who have recently travelled to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a move aimed at preventing the spread of infectious disease despite concerns raised by the United Nations that blanket travel restrictions are ineffective.

The Canadian government said the temporary measure will apply to foreign nationals who have recently been in the DRC, where authorities continue to respond to a public health emergency. Officials said the restrictions are intended to protect public health while the situation is closely monitored.

Canadian authorities said exemptions will apply to Canadian citizens, permanent residents and certain other categories of travelers, who may instead be subject to additional health screening, testing or quarantine requirements upon arrival. The government said the measures are temporary and will be reviewed as the health situation evolves.

The World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations have generally advised against broad travel and trade restrictions during disease outbreaks, arguing that such measures often have limited public health benefits while disrupting humanitarian assistance, trade and international cooperation.

Canadian officials acknowledged the international guidance but said the government had decided to take additional precautions based on its assessment of the risks. They stressed that the restrictions form part of a broader strategy that includes surveillance, border screening and coordination with public health authorities.

Health experts said the effectiveness of travel restrictions depends on how they are implemented and whether they are combined with testing, contact tracing and other public health measures. They also cautioned that restrictions should be proportionate, evidence-based and regularly reviewed.

The decision comes as governments around the world continue to evaluate border controls in response to emerging public health threats, balancing efforts to protect their populations with international recommendations aimed at minimising unnecessary disruptions to travel and commerce.