We are thrilled to bring you the next episode of our monthly special in cooperation with the Journal of Democracy. In the framework of this new partnership, our editors discuss outstanding articles from the newest print issue of the journal with their authors.
In this discussion with Nate Schenkkan, an independent authority on human rights and global authoritarianism and former senior director of research at Freedom House, we examine the growing issue of transnational repression—a practice wherein states pursue individuals and groups beyond their own borders whom they regard as threats to those in power. Although much of the international public’s awareness stems from prominent incidents such as the assassination of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi in Istanbul, our discussion underscores the significance of more routine methods, including digital intimidation and attempts to suppress dissent among diaspora communities. We examine the factors that contribute to the rise of transnational repression and outline strategies to protect targets, such as digital security, diaspora organizing, and the importance of local-level initiatives in building community defenses against state harassment.
The conversation is based on his article, “The Golden Age of Transnational Repression,” published in the October 2025 (36/4) issue of the Journal of Democracy.
The conversation was led by Kristóf Szombati. Lilit Hakobyan edited the audio file.
