Answer given by High Representative/Vice-President Borrell i Fontelles on behalf of the European Commission
9.4.2024
1. The EU raises its concerns with third-country governments regarding transnational repression against their nationals in third countries including through human rights dialogues, demarches, trial observation and statements in multilateral fora, underlining the principle of non-refoulement. The EU calls on these countries not to abuse the Interpol red notice system. We also coordinate our approaches with like-minded partners.
2. In December 2023, the Commission published a recommendation on inclusive and resilient elections[1] as part of the Defence of Democracy Package[2]. The recommendation stresses that surveillance and spyware tools should not be used to interfere with the democratic debate, notably by targeting political actors and journalists. It found that while there may be instances whereby spyware is used to defend national security, its use to gain a political advantage can never be justified as a national security matter. No later than one year after the next elections to the European Parliament, the Commission will assess the impact of the recommendation in the Commission’s Report on the elections to the European Parliament.
3. The protection of human rights defenders (HRDs) is a priority of the EU. Several instruments are mobilised to ensure their protection. The EU delivers emergency funds through Protectdefenders.eu to HRDs at risk, including HRDs in exile subject to transnational repression. The EU exchanges information with Member States regarding cases of HRDs needing visas for temporary relocation within the EU. In addition, the Commission will include guidance on HRDs in the Revised Visa Code Handbook once finalised.