“We Will Find You” A Global Look at How Governments Repress Nationals Abroad The term “transnational repression” describes efforts by governments to silence or deter dissent by reaching beyond their borders and committing human rights abuses against their own nationals or former nationals. These abuses leave individuals unable to find safety for themselves or their families, even on foreign soil. They have a serious chilling effect on the right to freedom of expression, as people who are targeted, or fear being targeted, are too afraid to speak out. “We Will Find You” takes a global, rights-centered look at transnational repression and outlines over 75 cases drawn from over 20 countries across four regions. These cases, previously documented by Human Rights Watch, show transnational repression in many forms, including killings, unlawful removals and abductions. Other methods include the abusive use of consular services, the targeting of relatives back home, and the use of technology to surveil and harass. The report also describes cases of government abuse of Interpol’s “Red Notice” arrest system. Human Rights Watch calls on states to recognize transnational repression as a threat to human rights. The recommendations urge governments and international institutions to take tangible steps to combat these practices, while ensuring that any government response respects the rights of affected communities. © 2024 Brian Stauffer for Human Rights Watch hrw.org