Government repression refers to the actions taken by a government to control or limit the freedoms and rights of its citizens. This can include censorship of the media, restrictions on free speech, and the suppression of political dissent. Such measures are often justified by the government as necessary for maintaining order or national security. Repression can manifest in various forms, such as the use of law enforcement to intimidate activists or the implementation of laws that restrict assembly and protest. Historical examples include the actions of authoritarian regimes, where dissent is often met with harsh penalties, including imprisonment or violence against individuals who oppose the government.