Alcobendas Student Denied Visa for UN Project in New York

A student from IES Severo Ochoa will not be able to participate in the Global Classrooms program due to his Iranian origin, sparking criticism and political reactions.

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IA

Generic image of a travel document or passport.

A 14-year-old student from IES Severo Ochoa in Alcobendas has had his trip to New York for a UN educational project thwarted, following a visa denial by the United States, a decision that has sparked controversy.

The young man, identified as Kian, had been selected to represent the Community of Madrid in the prestigious Global Classrooms program, a simulation of United Nations sessions. His participation was earned after a rigorous selection process among more than 1,600 students from public schools in the region, standing out for his academic record and preparation.
The minor's family went to the United States Embassy in Madrid with all the required documentation, including academic certificates and program details. However, the application was immediately rejected, citing security reasons related to the student's Iranian nationality, according to various media reports.

The denial was based on security arguments linked to the student's Iranian nationality.

This incident has caused a wave of indignation in the school environment of Alcobendas and has generated reactions in the political sphere. The Más Madrid party has announced that it will present initiatives both in the Assembly of Madrid and in the Alcobendas City Council to condemn the decision and request its reversal, allowing the student to attend the UN meeting.
Kian's case, who is fluent in several languages and shows a notable interest in geopolitics, has reopened the debate on the implications of migratory restrictions and the treatment of individuals from certain nationalities. The situation is considered particularly striking due to the student's age and excellent academic performance, contrasting with the reason for the denial.