Beyond Borders: Transnational Repression Against Human Rights Defenders in Exile in East Africa

Exile does not necessarily put an end to the repression of human rights defenders (HRDs). Across East Africa, many continue to face forms of transnational repression, including surveillance, intimidation, digital threats, and administrative or migration-related pressure.

Based on interviews with 50 human rights defenders from eight countries, this report examines the mechanisms of transnational repression in Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda. It highlights the role of countries of origin, host states, and regional networks in perpetuating these threats.

The report underscores the need to strengthen protection mechanisms beyond the granting of asylum and proposes a regional framework built on four pillars: prevention, protection, accountability, and access to remedies, ensuring that human rights defenders can continue their work safely, even across borders.

Transnational Repression of Human Rights Defenders in East Africa report