Authoritarian regimes do not stop their repression at their borders. They increasingly follow, surveil and threaten critics even in Europe. In some cases, they cooperate with one another as well as with actors linked to organised crime. The problem is growing – yet effective political counterstrategies are still lacking.
The term transnational repression describes this approach: states attempt to silence dissidents, journalists, activists, and members of diaspora communities abroad.
Combating transnational repression
To effectively address this threat, we need:
- improve data collection to get a comprehensive overview
- stronger protection for people in exile, including through specialised support services and legal assistance
- security authorities that detect cases early and follow up on them consistently
- closer cooperation with European partners
- systematic exposure of networks
- consistent criminal prosecution of perpetrators
Negotiations in the European Parliament
Anyone seeking protection from repression in Europe must also be able to find it. That is why I am working on a report on transnational repression in the Committee on Foreign Affairs. As rapporteur, I am currently leading negotiations with the other political groups in the European Parliament. The vote is planned for May in committee and is expected to take place in plenary in June.
More on this in my op-ed at Table Media.
