Transnational Repression: Russia's Global Strategy Against Dissidents and Human Rights Defenders

This briefing details the systematic use of transnational repression by the Russian Federation to punish critics, journalists, and human rights defenders residing abroad. It examines the legal frameworks, physical attacks, and bureaucratic tools employed to silence opposition across international borders.

- Legal Mechanisms: Analysis of the August 4th law imposing restrictions on citizens' rights and the designation of NGOs as extremist organizations.
- Physical Threats: Cases of poisoning, assassination attempts, and violent attacks against dissidents in countries such as Germany, Sweden, and the Czech Republic.
- International Cooperation Abuse: The misuse of Interpol Red Notices and extradition treaties within the Commonwealth of Independent States to detain or deport critics.
- Financial and Digital Pressure: The impact of terrorist/extremist registers on banking access and the use of SLAPP lawsuits to silence international journalism.
- Regional Risks: Identification of vulnerable regions including CIS nations, Central Asia, and European Union member states where vetting procedures are lacking.

Provides a comprehensive overview for policymakers, journalists, and human rights advocates to understand the scope of state-sponsored repression and identify necessary protective measures for at-risk individuals.