Webinar on Borderless Repression: Transnational Threats to Journalists in the European Landscape

Borderless Repression: Transnational threats to Journalists in the European Landscape

Authoritarian regimes and powerful non-state actors are extending their reach like never before, deploying increasingly sophisticated tactics to silence journalists far beyond their borders. Within Europe, exiled journalists or those daring to challenge autocratic governments are facing mounting dangers. However, they remain critical voices, reporting vital information from the margins of societies where media freedom is under siege.

What are the key threats they face today? How can we enhance their protection as borders become more permeable to authoritarian influence?

On the 31st of October, 2024, Media Defence and Free Press Unlimited hosted a dynamic discussion addressing various aspects of transnational repression of journalists in Europe. Ardi Bouwers explored the threats posed by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) to journalists based in the Netherlands, offering recommendations for newsrooms on how to respond. Chryssa Mela explained how Interpol Red Notices are used as tools of repression against journalists. Natalia Krapiva discussed broader policies on transnational repression, focusing on Access Now’s recent publications on phishing and Pegasus spyware. Shushan Doydoyan examined the digital threats facing Armenian journalists, particularly the use of spyware by Azerbaijan to suppress freedom of expression. Maryia Kolesava-Hudzilina and Anna Matsiyeuskaya presented the Andrey Gnyot case and other related extradition issues, while Natalia Belikova highlighted efforts to preserve Belarusian journalism in exile. Katerina Abramova discussed the case of Galina Timchenko and attacks by Russia on Meduza and its journalists. 

Media Defence and Free Press Unlimited (FPU) are working to confront these threats head-on, protecting those who dare to report on the abuses of authoritarian states. This webinar will explore pressing cases and strategies aimed at defending the press from transnational repression in Europe.

Speakers

• Natalia Belikova, CEO of Press Club Belarus 
  
• Ardi Bouwers, Sinologist and Director of the consultancy China Circle
• Chryssa Mela, Senior Legal & Policy Officer at Fair Trials
• Shushan Doydoyan, President of the Freedom of Information Center of Armenia
• Natalia Krapiva, Senior Tech-Legal Counsel at Access Now
• Maryia Kolesava-Hudzilina, Lawyer and President of the Belarusian Association of Human Rights Lawyers
• Anna Matsiyeuskaya, WKB Lawyers, Co-head of Eastern Desk & Co-Founder, Partyzanka Foundation
• Katerina Abramova, Head of Communications, Meduza
• Yuri Marchenko (Moderator), Senior Legal Officer, Media Defence.
• Emma Bergmans, (Moderator), Senior Policy & Advocacy Advisor, Free Press Unlimited.