German Group Defies US Travel Ban Over Online Safety Work

Just before Christmas, Josephine Ballon received an email that changed everything: US Customs had banned her from entering the country. Within hours, she learned her colleague Anna Lena von Hodenberg faced the same fate, along with three other European advocates working to make the internet safer.

The reason? Their work at HateAid, a small Berlin nonprofit that supports victims of online harassment and violence. The organization helps people report illegal content, preserves evidence of abuse, and provides emotional support to those targeted by digital attacks.

"We kind of felt a chill in our bones," von Hodenberg admitted. But instead of retreating, the two women immediately fought back with a powerful statement defending their work and calling for support from European leaders.

That support came swiftly. Germany's foreign minister called the bans "not acceptable." French President Emmanuel Macron declared the measures amounted to intimidation. The European Commission strongly condemned the action and reaffirmed Europe's right to protect its citizens online.

The solidarity went beyond statements. Allies across Europe rallied to help HateAid prepare for potential next steps, offering practical advice and assistance. The message was clear: targeting people who help harassment victims won't silence them.

The Ripple Effect

The response to HateAid's situation demonstrates something powerful: when people stand up for doing good, others stand with them. European officials, free speech experts, and countless organizations united to defend those working to make online spaces safer for everyone.

The travel ban aimed to intimidate has instead amplified HateAid's mission. More people now know about the organization's work helping victims navigate what von Hodenberg calls "a lawless place" online. More voices are speaking up about the importance of protecting people from digital violence.

Founded in 2018, HateAid has grown from a small support service into a defender of digital rights across Europe. Their clients, many of whom have faced severe online abuse, know firsthand why this work matters.

Despite warnings that more consequences could follow, Ballon and von Hodenberg remain committed to their mission. They're taking precautions while continuing to help victims and advocate for safer online spaces.

Their courage reminds us that standing up for human rights, even when facing powerful opposition, can inspire others to do the same.