The Egyptian Human Rights Forum (EHRF), in partnership with EuroMed Rights, officially launched its second annual report, “Wherever They Go: Transnational Repression and the Targeting of Egyptians Abroad,” during a press conference held at the Press Club Brussels Europe.
The event brought together prominent policymakers and human rights experts, including MEP Chloé Ridel (Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats), Moataz El Fegiery (Vice President of EuroMed Rights), Alexis Deswaef(President of the International Federation for Human Rights), and Samar Elhussieny.
The report is the result of more than a year of research and documentation. It draws on in-depth interviews with activists, journalists, and human rights defenders across multiple regions, alongside qualitative surveys and data analysis. A central feature of this year’s publication is the launch of EHRF’s first-ever dedicated database documenting patterns of transnational repression by Egyptian authorities targeting citizens abroad.
Speakers emphasized the growing scale and sophistication of cross-border repression, including surveillance, harassment, smear campaigns, and the targeting of family members inside Egypt as a form of indirect coercion. The findings highlight how repression extends beyond national borders, creating what EHRF describes as an “illusory safety” for Egyptians in exile.
In her remarks, Chloé Ridel underscored the importance of ensuring that EU external policies integrate human rights safeguards, particularly in the context of partnerships with countries where such violations persist. Moataz El Fegieryhighlighted the systemic nature of transnational repression, noting the role of diplomatic and administrative tools in restricting the space for dissent abroad. Alexis Deswaef stressed the need for stronger international accountability mechanisms, while Samar Elhussieny presented the report’s key findings and the strategic importance of documenting these patterns to inform advocacy and policy responses.
The discussion also addressed the implications of these practices for freedom of expression, civic space, and the protection of human rights defenders globally. Participants called for coordinated action by European institutions and international bodies to ensure that transnational repression is systematically monitored, publicly addressed, and effectively countered.
The launch of this report marks a significant step in EHRF’s ongoing efforts to expose and challenge cross-border repression, while equipping policymakers, civil society actors, and international mechanisms with evidence-based tools to strengthen protection and accountability frameworks.
