Recommendations & Conclusions
18 items
3
Recommendation
7th Report - Transnational repression i…
Not Addressed
We recommend that the Government adopt a formal definition of transnational repression. This should be developed in consultation with law enforcement, civil society and affected communities. It should include, as core elements, the ‘involvement’ of a foreign state, and the targeting of individuals located outside that state’s jurisdiction. The definition …
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We recommend that the Government adopt a formal definition of transnational repression. This should be developed in consultation with law enforcement, civil society and affected communities. It should include, as core elements, the ‘involvement’ of a foreign state, and the targeting of individuals located outside that state’s jurisdiction. The definition should be sufficiently broad to encompass victims of TNR regardless of their ethnicity or nationality. In addition to adopting a legal definition, authorities should be equipped with clear guidance and explanatory materials outlining the various forms transnational repression can take. (Recommendation, Paragraph 21)
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Government response AI summary
The government's response outlines how the National Security Act 2023 addresses state threats, including transnational repression, and mentions ongoing reviews by the Independent Reviewer and broader TNR reviews. It discusses emerging technologies and a 'whole-of-system response' but does not commit to adopting a formal definition …
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Ministry of Justice
4
Recommendation
7th Report - Transnational repression i…
Not Addressed
Without clear data on the scale and nature of TNR events in the UK, it is difficult both to create effective policy responses and to judge the effectiveness of the Government’s new TNR strategy. The Government should ask police forces to collect relevant data on the number and nature of …
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Without clear data on the scale and nature of TNR events in the UK, it is difficult both to create effective policy responses and to judge the effectiveness of the Government’s new TNR strategy. The Government should ask police forces to collect relevant data on the number and nature of TNR reports in the UK. This data should then be used to review the effectiveness of the new TNR strategy and to identify countries of concern. This approach will enhance the UK’s capacity to identify patterns of state- linked harassment and coercion, and to respond more effectively to the evolving threat landscape. We recommend that, in cases where reports of TNR do not lead to prosecution or further action, law enforcement 40 agencies should nonetheless record and retain relevant data, where appropriate, to support TNR trend analysis and future investigative efforts. (Recommendation, Paragraph 22)
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Government response AI summary
The government's response focuses on how transnational repression will be considered within the Foreign Influence Registration Scheme (FIRS) and states they will keep enhanced tier specifications under review, but it does not address the recommendation for police forces to collect data on TNR reports or …
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Ministry of Justice
5
Conclusion
7th Report - Transnational repression i…
Not Addressed
The evidence we have received indicates that existing UK criminal legislation provides an effective framework for dealing with offences related to TNR. We have not identified any significant gaps in criminal law related to TNR. We agree that the creation of additional criminal offences is not necessary at this time …
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The evidence we have received indicates that existing UK criminal legislation provides an effective framework for dealing with offences related to TNR. We have not identified any significant gaps in criminal law related to TNR. We agree that the creation of additional criminal offences is not necessary at this time to address the challenges posed by TNR. (Conclusion, Paragraph 26)
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Government response AI summary
The government's response outlines the Foreign Influence Registration Scheme (FIRS), its objectives, and a commitment to publish an annual report on its operation and impact on TNR. It does not directly address the committee's conclusion regarding the effectiveness of existing UK criminal legislation for TNR …
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Ministry of Justice
7
Conclusion
7th Report - Transnational repression i…
Not Addressed
We welcome the introduction of the Foreign Influence Registration Scheme (FIRS) as a tool to help strengthen the UK’s ability to tackle transnational repression. The designation of Iran and Russia as countries listed on the enhanced tier of FIRS is consistent with the evidence presented to us regarding the threat …
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We welcome the introduction of the Foreign Influence Registration Scheme (FIRS) as a tool to help strengthen the UK’s ability to tackle transnational repression. The designation of Iran and Russia as countries listed on the enhanced tier of FIRS is consistent with the evidence presented to us regarding the threat posed by TNR originating from these states. However, we are concerned by the evidence we have received regarding transnational repression linked to China. The absence of China on the enhanced tier of FIRS is therefore notable. (Conclusion, Paragraph 32)
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Government response AI summary
The government's response outlines its general approach to TNR, including awareness campaigns and police training, and states it will refine its approach. However, it does not directly address the committee's concern about the absence of China from the enhanced tier of the Foreign Influence Registration …
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Ministry of Justice
8
Recommendation
7th Report - Transnational repression i…
Not Addressed
The Government should ensure that TNR is a high priority consideration when deciding which countries should be specified under the enhanced tier of the Foreign Influence Registration Scheme. Decisions on which countries to specify under the enhanced tier of FIRS must be guided by objective assessments of threat, not influenced …
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The Government should ensure that TNR is a high priority consideration when deciding which countries should be specified under the enhanced tier of the Foreign Influence Registration Scheme. Decisions on which countries to specify under the enhanced tier of FIRS must be guided by objective assessments of threat, not influenced by broader foreign policy considerations. We recommend that the Government specify China under the enhanced tier of FIRS. China conducts the most comprehensive TNR campaign of any foreign state operating in the UK. Its omission from the enhanced tier risks undermining the credibility and coherence of FIRS. Any attempt to specify only isolated parts of the Chinese state in the FIRS would fail to reflect the true nature and complexity of the threat, as influence operations span all sectors of the economy and lack clear command-and- control structures. (Recommendation, Paragraph 33) 41
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Government response AI summary
The government's response discusses online guidance for individuals at risk of TNR, its review, accessibility, and integration with other resources. However, it does not address the recommendation to prioritize TNR in FIRS country designations or to specify China under the enhanced tier of FIRS.
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Ministry of Justice
9
Recommendation
7th Report - Transnational repression i…
Not Addressed
The Home Office and relevant enforcement bodies should develop clear guidance on how FIRS data can be used to support investigations into TNR, and regular reviews should be conducted to assess the scheme’s effectiveness in this regard. (Recommendation, Paragraph 34)
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The Home Office and relevant enforcement bodies should develop clear guidance on how FIRS data can be used to support investigations into TNR, and regular reviews should be conducted to assess the scheme’s effectiveness in this regard. (Recommendation, Paragraph 34)
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Government response AI summary
The government's response outlines updates on police training modules concerning the National Security Act and foreign interference, noting their review and mandatory status for counter-terrorism officers. However, it does not address the recommendation to develop guidance on how FIRS data can be used for TNR …
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Ministry of Justice
10
Conclusion
7th Report - Transnational repression i…
Not Addressed
Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs) are increasingly used as instruments of transnational repression. These lawsuits are designed to intimidate and silence individuals who expose or criticise the actions of authoritarian regimes. The evidence we have received demonstrates that journalists are at particular risk of TNR via the use of …
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Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs) are increasingly used as instruments of transnational repression. These lawsuits are designed to intimidate and silence individuals who expose or criticise the actions of authoritarian regimes. The evidence we have received demonstrates that journalists are at particular risk of TNR via the use of SLAPPs. Whilst the inclusion of SLAPP provisions in the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 was a welcome first step towards tackling SLAPPs, the current framework is limited to measures related to economic crime and fails to address the broader use of SLAPPs as a tool of transnational repression. Expanding the scope of protections is essential to safeguarding freedom of expression and ensuring that the UK does not become a jurisdiction of choice for legal harassment. (Conclusion, Paragraph 40)
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Government response AI summary
The government's response discusses and rejects the establishment of a dedicated hotline for reporting transnational repression and describes existing police reporting mechanisms, failing to address the committee's conclusion regarding the limited scope of SLAPP provisions in the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023.
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Ministry of Justice
11
Recommendation
7th Report - Transnational repression i…
Not Addressed
In response to this report, the Government should provide this Committee with a clear timeline in which it plans to review the effectiveness of the SLAPPs provisions in the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023. The Government should also set out the criteria it intends to use to assess …
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In response to this report, the Government should provide this Committee with a clear timeline in which it plans to review the effectiveness of the SLAPPs provisions in the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023. The Government should also set out the criteria it intends to use to assess whether these provisions have worked as intended. The Government should use the results of this review to inform the drafting of future legislation to address SLAPPs that are not related to economic crime. (Recommendation, Paragraph 41) Policing and Support for victims
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Government response AI summary
The government's response did not address the recommendation regarding a timeline or criteria for reviewing the effectiveness of SLAPPs provisions in the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023.
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Ministry of Justice
12
Recommendation
7th Report - Transnational repression i…
Not Addressed
We recommend that the Government develop and implement a proactive outreach strategy aimed at individuals and communities likely to be at high risk of TNR. This strategy should be developed within 12 months and include clear timelines for how engagement activities will be rolled out. The Government should engage with …
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We recommend that the Government develop and implement a proactive outreach strategy aimed at individuals and communities likely to be at high risk of TNR. This strategy should be developed within 12 months and include clear timelines for how engagement activities will be rolled out. The Government should engage with diaspora groups, civil society organisations, and community leaders to provide practical guidance on the methods and tactics commonly used in TNR, as well as the steps individuals can take to enhance their personal safety and access appropriate support and reporting mechanisms. (Recommendation, Paragraph 45)
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Government response AI summary
The government's response focuses on safeguards against the misuse of INTERPOL Red Notices and Diffusions, and working with INTERPOL on reforms, but it does not address the recommendation to develop and implement a proactive outreach strategy for individuals and communities at high risk of TNR.
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Ministry of Justice
13
Conclusion
7th Report - Transnational repression i…
Not Addressed
We welcome the Government’s publication of online guidance for people experiencing TNR. This is a positive step towards providing easily accessible information on TNR and helping victims understand avenues of support available to them. (Conclusion, Paragraph 48) 42
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We welcome the Government’s publication of online guidance for people experiencing TNR. This is a positive step towards providing easily accessible information on TNR and helping victims understand avenues of support available to them. (Conclusion, Paragraph 48) 42
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Government response AI summary
The government's response provides boilerplate text about INTERPOL's CCF and the UK's inability to intervene in other nations' judicial processes, completely failing to address the committee's welcome of online guidance for people experiencing transnational repression.
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Ministry of Justice
14
Recommendation
7th Report - Transnational repression i…
Not Addressed
We recommend that the content of this guidance be reviewed regularly, with input from victims, to ensure it is genuinely effective and helpful for victims and that it remains responsive to evolving TNR tactics. The Government should ensure that this guidance is made available in multiple languages within six months, …
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We recommend that the content of this guidance be reviewed regularly, with input from victims, to ensure it is genuinely effective and helpful for victims and that it remains responsive to evolving TNR tactics. The Government should ensure that this guidance is made available in multiple languages within six months, this should include languages commonly spoken by affected communities. We further recommend that the Government take proactive steps to promote this existence of this guidance amongst communities at high risk of experiencing TNR. (Recommendation, Paragraph 49)
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Government response AI summary
The government's response discusses INTERPOL processes, general FCDO travel advice, and existing guidance on GOV.UK, but it fails to address the specific recommendations for regular review with victim input, multilingual provision within six months, or proactive promotion of the guidance.
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Ministry of Justice
15
Conclusion
7th Report - Transnational repression i…
Not Addressed
We welcome the development of new training materials for police forces on TNR. This represents a positive step toward improving frontline awareness and ensuring appropriate responses to TNR incidences. We welcome the decision to make this training mandatory for counter-terrorism officers. However, it is equally important that the training is …
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We welcome the development of new training materials for police forces on TNR. This represents a positive step toward improving frontline awareness and ensuring appropriate responses to TNR incidences. We welcome the decision to make this training mandatory for counter-terrorism officers. However, it is equally important that the training is rolled out more broadly across police forces, ensuring that officers in all relevant roles are equipped to recognise and respond to transnational repression. (Conclusion, Paragraph 55)
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Government response AI summary
The government's response outlines how immigration decision-makers are guided on INTERPOL Red Notices and how Country Policy and Information Notes (CPINs) consider relevant country information, including TNR. However, it does not address the committee's conclusion regarding the broader rollout of TNR training across police forces.
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Ministry of Justice
16
Recommendation
7th Report - Transnational repression i…
Not Addressed
The Government should regularly evaluate the uptake of the new police training on transnational repression. Updates on participation rates should be provided to the Committee every six months. If uptake remains limited, serious consideration should be given to making this training mandatory for all police officers. Police should also be …
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The Government should regularly evaluate the uptake of the new police training on transnational repression. Updates on participation rates should be provided to the Committee every six months. If uptake remains limited, serious consideration should be given to making this training mandatory for all police officers. Police should also be given training on early warning signs of TNR-related risks, such as intimidation of friends and family members abroad. (Recommendation, Paragraph 56)
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Government response AI summary
The government's response discusses its general approach to TNR, diplomatic measures, and a review of the OSJA guidance, but does not address the specific recommendations regarding police training evaluation, participation rates, or making training mandatory for all officers.
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Ministry of Justice
17
Conclusion
7th Report - Transnational repression i…
Not Addressed
We heard consistent evidence highlighting the absence of an effective mechanism for reporting suspected incidents of TNR. This gap not only leaves victims without adequate support but also significantly undermines the UK’s capacity to monitor, assess, and respond to such threats. There is little consistency in the way police forces …
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We heard consistent evidence highlighting the absence of an effective mechanism for reporting suspected incidents of TNR. This gap not only leaves victims without adequate support but also significantly undermines the UK’s capacity to monitor, assess, and respond to such threats. There is little consistency in the way police forces deal with reported TNR cases. Individuals seeking to report incidences of TNR are often referred to police departments unfamiliar with the nature and tactics of TNR, resulting in delays and inaction. (Conclusion, Paragraph 60)
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Government response AI summary
The government's response did not address the conclusion about the absence of an effective reporting mechanism for TNR or the inconsistent way police forces handle such cases, instead providing generic information on sanctions.
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Ministry of Justice
18
Conclusion
7th Report - Transnational repression i…
Not Addressed
Victims of TNR often take considerable personal risk in reporting TNR related crimes. Many choose not to come forward due to a lack of confidence in existing reporting systems, concerns that have often been shaped by previous negative experiences. Establishing a dedicated reporting mechanism could play a vital role in …
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Victims of TNR often take considerable personal risk in reporting TNR related crimes. Many choose not to come forward due to a lack of confidence in existing reporting systems, concerns that have often been shaped by previous negative experiences. Establishing a dedicated reporting mechanism could play a vital role in building trust within affected communities. If individuals knew their reports would be handled by trained, sensitive personnel who understand TNR and the potential risks victims face even in coming forward to report it, more victims may feel safe and supported enough to seek help. (Conclusion, Paragraph 61) 43
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Government response AI summary
The government's response discusses the design, scrutiny, and legal framework of sanctions, but does not address the committee's conclusion about the importance of establishing a dedicated reporting mechanism for victims of transnational repression.
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Ministry of Justice
19
Recommendation
7th Report - Transnational repression i…
Not Addressed
We recommend that the Government establish a dedicated national reporting hotline for individuals who experience TNR to enhance victim support, improve data collection, and facilitate timely referrals to the appropriate personnel. The reporting hotline should be established within one year of the publication of this report. It should be staffed …
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We recommend that the Government establish a dedicated national reporting hotline for individuals who experience TNR to enhance victim support, improve data collection, and facilitate timely referrals to the appropriate personnel. The reporting hotline should be established within one year of the publication of this report. It should be staffed by personnel specifically trained to identify and respond to TNR, with a clear understanding of the tactics employed by particular state actors and established referral pathways to the appropriate law enforcement agencies. The service should be supported by a multilingual provision, including translated materials and guidance, as well as access to interpreters who can assist callers in their preferred language. (Recommendation, Paragraph 62)
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Government response AI summary
The government's response focuses on international cooperation, multilateral meetings, and G7/UN statements to raise awareness of TNR, but it does not address the recommendation to establish a dedicated national reporting hotline within one year.
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Ministry of Justice
22
Recommendation
7th Report - Transnational repression i…
Not Addressed
We recommend the Government works with ‘Five Eyes’ and other partners to track and expose malicious, vexatious, and politically motivated use of Red Notices by member states. In doing so, the Government should advocate for greater transparency and accountability within INTERPOL’s procedures and advocate for the use of corrective measures …
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We recommend the Government works with ‘Five Eyes’ and other partners to track and expose malicious, vexatious, and politically motivated use of Red Notices by member states. In doing so, the Government should advocate for greater transparency and accountability within INTERPOL’s procedures and advocate for the use of corrective measures and suspensions for systematic abusers of INTERPOL mechanisms. (Recommendation, Paragraph 72)
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Government response AI summary
The government's response outlines its whole-of-government approach to countering TNR and inter-departmental collaboration, but it does not address the recommendation to work with international partners on tracking and exposing the misuse of INTERPOL Red Notices or advocating for greater transparency in INTERPOL procedures.
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Ministry of Justice
32
Recommendation
7th Report - Transnational repression i…
Not Addressed
Due to the national security sensitivities and the need for swift action, there are limited opportunities for Parliament to scrutinise sanctions policy. We recommend that the Government provide regular confidential updates to the Intelligence and Security Committee, outlining the rationale for imposing, or not imposing sanctions, in relevant cases. (Recommendation, …
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Due to the national security sensitivities and the need for swift action, there are limited opportunities for Parliament to scrutinise sanctions policy. We recommend that the Government provide regular confidential updates to the Intelligence and Security Committee, outlining the rationale for imposing, or not imposing sanctions, in relevant cases. (Recommendation, Paragraph 90)
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Government response AI summary
The government did not address the recommendation to provide regular confidential updates to the Intelligence and Security Committee on the rationale for imposing or not imposing sanctions. Instead, it outlined existing parliamentary scrutiny procedures for sanctions legislation and general updates to Parliament.
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Ministry of Justice