Transnational repression (TNR) involves the actions of authoritarian states, and those acting on their behalf, to silence opposition and independent voices beyond their borders. It targets individuals and groups such as journalists, human rights defenders, academics and diaspora communities, using tactics that range from surveillance and online harassment to legal intimidation and coercion of family members overseas.

Through research, advocacy and collaboration, the Foreign Policy Centre aims to raise awareness of transnational repression as a growing threat to democratic resilience and fundamental rights. As part of this work, FPC is a founding member of the Tackling Transnational Repression in the UK Working Group, which brings together experts and civil society partners to monitor TNR in the UK context, support those affected, and shape policy responses grounded in accountability and human rights.