On Thursday, the European Parliament called for stronger measures from the European Union to address actions by authoritarian regimes that target political opponents and critical voices beyond their borders.
In a report adopted with 512 votes in favor, 76 against, and 52 abstentions, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) emphasized that human rights defenders are essential to democracy and the rule of law but currently lack adequate protection.
The report notes that ten countries—China, Türkiye, Tajikistan, Russia, Egypt, Cambodia, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Iran, and Belarus—are responsible for 80% of documented cases of transnational repression. Over the past decade, more than 1,200 direct physical incidents have been recorded in 103 countries.
For the first time, Parliament provided a detailed definition of transnational repression. According to MEPs, these acts are “attacks and threats perpetrated by states, authoritarian regimes and their proxies, which aim to defend and promote their interests across national borders to coerce, control or silence dissidents, political opponents, journalists, activists, human rights defenders and members of the diaspora.” The report lists methods such as targeted killings, abductions, violence, harassment and forced returns as well as disappearances and expulsions.
MEPs also identified misuse of legal tools—including consular services or extradition procedures—and abuse of Interpol’s ‘red notices’ as tactics used against rights defenders. They further condemned non-physical methods like digital surveillance and intimidation or threats directed at families.
The role of technology in facilitating transnational repression was highlighted. MEPs urged EU member states to recognize and address digital forms of repression—such as disinformation campaigns—and ensure accountability among private technology companies through transparency reports and grievance mechanisms.
Regarding EU relations with third countries, MEPs advocated for systematic monitoring of human rights clauses in agreements. They called for strict market oversight and a ban on exporting spyware or dual-use goods to regimes found guilty of transnational repression.
The report recommends holding perpetrators accountable through targeted sanctions under instruments such as the EU Global Human Rights Sanctions Regime (EU Magnitsky Act).
Rapporteur Chloé Ridel (S&D Group) stated: “Physical threats, poisoning, spyware, online harassment, passport cancellation… authoritarian regimes are tracking their opponents far beyond their borders and increasingly on European soil. So far we have let it happen. It is time to put an end to it. Europe must remain a safe haven for those fighting for freedom and democracy.”
The European Parliament continues its support for international efforts promoting democracy and human rights. Each year it awards the Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought; in 2025 this prize went to imprisoned journalists Andrzej Poczobut from Belarus and Mzia Amaglobeli from Georgia.
