In a rare move, Italian authorities have issued expulsion orders for eight Chinese nationals suspected of spying on political dissidents on behalf of the Chinese government.
First Expulsions on Transnational Repression Grounds
The Interior Ministry’s orders came after officials determined the Chinese agents were attempting to locate regime critics living in Italy to intimidate and harass them, raising “national security” concerns. Three of the individuals were immediately repatriated, one is currently detained in Rome pending expulsion, and four had already left the country.
This case marks the first time Italy has ordered expulsions specifically related to transnational repression, according to Laura Harth, a human rights advocate with Safeguard Defenders. “I’m pleasantly surprised that we finally see action,” Harth said.
While Italian authorities did not prosecute the suspects, the action demonstrates increased attention to the issue. Harth noted, “There is clear concern and attention within the specialized police on this issue,” but also cautioned that “I do reckon we still have an issue of political motivation to actually deal with this.”
Broader Tactics of Transnational Repression
The expulsions come as part of a larger pattern of tactics employed by the Chinese government against dissidents living abroad, including physical and online surveillance, pressuring family members, and internet monitoring. These tactics were detailed in ICIJ’s 2025 China Targets investigation.
The investigation uncovered that Chinese police have internal guidelines, dating back to 2013, on how to identify and control targets, even resorting to digging up “immoral behavior.” As transnational repression intensifies, activists from China and Hong Kong are increasingly hesitant to speak out for fear of repercussions against family back home.
ICIJ interviewed 105 targets of Beijing’s tactics, including one in Italy, known as “Teacher Li,” who amassed 1.9 million followers on X by posting about demonstrations and discontent within China during the COVID-19 pandemic. Teacher Li reported being “threatened by strangers” after his Italian address was discovered by Chinese authorities. Acquaintances of Teacher Li outside of Italy were also targeted, with one artist in France reporting his father was interrogated by Chinese officials.
Teacher Li expressed gratitude for the Italian government’s action, stating it defends “fundamental democratic principles and the rule of law.”
The European Parliament recently adopted a resolution condemning transnational repression, but Harth emphasized that the resolution itself “doesn’t really change anything on the ground.”
Recent reporting by La Repubblica revealed that Chinese hackers infiltrated the database of the Italian special counter-terrorism police between 2024 and 2025, accessing information on 5,000 Italian agents and the files of protected dissidents. The Chinese Embassy in Rome did not respond to requests for comment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the expulsion orders?
Italian authorities issued the expulsion orders after finding that the eight Chinese nationals were attempting to locate regime critics in Italy in order to intimidate and harass them, raising “national security” concerns.
Is this the first time Italy has taken action against transnational repression?
Yes, this case marks the first time Italy has ordered an expulsion specifically on transnational repression grounds.
What tactics does the Chinese government use against dissidents abroad?
According to ICIJ’s investigation, tactics include physical and online surveillance, pressuring dissidents’ family members, internet monitoring, and digging up damaging information about targets.
What role might international cooperation play in addressing this issue?
