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Transnational Repression

Transnational repression is one of several methods employed by foreign intelligence services against individuals and organisations. In the National Threat Assessment, the Norwegian Police Security Service (PST) confirms that transnational repression also occurs within academia in Norway.

Recently edited : 1. December 2025

What is transnational repression?

Transnational repression (TNR) refers to states using various measures against individuals residing in other countries who are considered a threat to the regime in the acting/responsible state. TNR resembles other intelligence activities, uses similar methods, and is by definition illegal. The purpose of such activities is to undermine or neutralize political opposition.

Who are typical targets of transnational repression?

According to recent threat assessments by PST (Norwegian Police Security Service), refugees, dissidents, and regime critics in Norway may be subjected to surveillance and threats. This can occur during physical demonstrations and digitally through cyber operations, as well as monitoring on social media. Individuals living in Norway and their relatives in their country of origin may be harassed and threatened—both physically and digitally. Some may also be recruited, through pressure or cultivation, to disclose information about diaspora communities and opposition activities in Norway.

How can transnational repression affect students and researchers?

Several reports have documented foreign intelligence activities on campuses in Western countries. In the report On my campus, I am Afraid, Amnesty International documents transnational repression targeting Chinese students and researchers in several European countries. The report highlights specific cases, including threats against relatives in the home country, and broader effects such as self-censorship in teaching contexts and career choices. It further notes that universities and authorities are often unaware of the threat faced by international students and therefore fail to implement adequate measures.

What responsibilities do universities and colleges have?

PST is tasked with preventing and investigating serious crimes against national security in Norway.

Universities and colleges must promote and protect academic freedom. According to the Norwegian Universities and Colleges Act,§10-1 (in Norwegian), institutions are responsible for ensuring a safe learning environment based on an overall assessment of students’ health, safety, and welfare.

Proposed assessments and procedures for management and administration

  • Be oriented about national threats and compile an overview of potentially vulnerable students and researchers at the institution.
  • Develop and implement preventive measures to support students and researchers who may be subjected to pressure.
  • Establish a clear contact point and follow-up routines within the institution.
  • Collaborate with the Norwegian Police Security Service (PST) when necessary.

Relevant resources