section_path: Civil activism (2004–2019)/Entry bans
section_name: Entry bans
paragraph_text: Entry bans
  
  Simion's activism caused outrage from Moldovan authorities, leading to multiple expulsions and entry bans. His first expulsion occurred in March 2009 during a protest marking the 91st anniversary of the union of Bessarabia with Romania. Simion and fellow organiser Eugen Rusu were arrested for alleged violation of public order; Simion received a fine, while Rusu was held in administrative detention. The incident was followed by a broader restriction on Romanian citizens entering Moldova, prompting Romania's foreign ministry to request explanation. In December 2014, he was briefly denied entry again, although the restriction was lifted within hours.
  
  On 14 May 2015, Simion was declared persona non grata and barred for five years from the country on grounds of "endangering national security". After diplomatic pressure from Romanian authorities, the sanction was rescinded in September of the year. Simion was briefly banned again for one day in February 2016. On 28 August 2018, during the Centenary March, Simion was prohibited for thirty days for allegedly displaying "aggressive and inappropriate behaviour" at the Moldova–Romania border. A final five-year ban was issued on 1 October 2018, during which Simion claimed he was arrested and assaulted, sharing photos of his injuries and the ban document online. Moldovan police denied the accusations, stating that the procedure had been peaceful. The current ban is set to expire in 2028 if not changed.