Secret Police Organizations and State Repression

Secret police are generally viewed as key institutions in autocrats’ repression apparatus. However, we lack clear empirical evidence on the link between secret and repression. Instead, recent studies indicate that surveillance provided by reduces physical human rights abuses. This paper re-examines relationship state We identify four mechanisms linking these variables, deterrence, targeting, organizational practices, institutional self-preservation. These provide contrasting expectations for overall but also contextual when may (not) increase To test expectations, collect data global existence of police. Results associated with increased repression, particularly they must develop a reputation to deter dissidents or multiple rival security organizations exist. In contrast, older, more established ones without rivals not