Better not in the US: A group of mathematicians has called for the International Congress of Mathematicians (ICM) in Philadelphia not to be held as planned in July.
The reason is the current political situation.
One reason cited is “America’s role in destabilizing the world through widespread aggression,” the mathematicians wrote in a petition calling for the ICM to be changed. This includes the kidnapping of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and “a brazen and reckless war against Iran,” as well as the unlawful killings of people in the Caribbean, support for Israel’s actions against the Palestinians, and threats against Cuba and Greenland.
The domestic political situation also argues against a conference in Philadelphia:
“The current US administration has clearly demonstrated its unbridled hatred of immigrants.” There are fears that the scientists could be banned from entering the country, as US authorities deny visas to citizens from more than 70 countries. ICE officials are killing and abusing people.
Fears of discrimination and violence
Mathematicians from all over the world are invited to the conference, and some of them may not “like an ICE officer.” These individuals could face discrimination and physical violence.
This rules out the current US administration from hosting the ICM. The ICM aims to foster a sense of international unity among mathematicians. If the conference goes ahead as planned in the US, “the IMU will be a complete failure,” the petition concludes.
Move the 2026 ICM out of the United States
Although the press releases will range from very select to rare, I said I'd pass...because sometimes the editors hide.
The choice of democratic Russia seems more appropriate. There, those who are not liked “stumble” from their balconies. As for the poor and shameless Maduro who did NOT eat the sidewalks of his people, you say it very well. Credibility!
Don't say things like that and you'll ruin their revolutionary narrative. :)