Inquiry on transnational repression in UK launched

LONDON: The Joint Committee on Human Rights has launched a new inquiry into transnational repression in the UK.

Announcing the inquiry, the committee said: “There is currently no single accepted definition of transnational repression in the UK. It is generally understood to include instances of intimidation, violence and harassment by a state against people in another state. Human rights activists, journalists and political opponents deemed to be a security threat could all be at risk from foreign governments seeking to suppress dissent. The committee’s inquiry will look at how transnational repression affects the human rights of people living in the UK. It will explore if enough support and protection is available to groups deemed at particular risk of harm. The inquiry will also examine the effectiveness of the government response to transnational repression and the effectiveness of policies and frameworks intended to prevent it.”

Launching the inquiry, Lord Alton said: “People from countries around the world come to the UK as a place of safety from repression. It is deeply concerning to hear reports that foreign governments are moving beyond their own national borders to persecute people here.