On May 13, the Russian authorities approved a new law that broadens the scope of what they deem “undesirable” organizations, now including those receiving financial support from foreign governments. This expansion paves the way for potential prohibitions on these groups.
Since its inception in 2015, Russia’s “undesirable” organization list, which aims at stifling dissent against Russian President Vladimir Putin, has been applied to a broad array of entities such as NGOs, independent media, human rights organizations, and more.
At present, there are 160 organizations on this list.
Consequences of being on this list include a prohibition on any activities within Russia, and it becomes illegal for individuals or media to distribute their content.
According to the recently approved bill, foreign state-funded organizations, like the BBC or Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, could find themselves added to the list.
This measure is meant to thwart a range of perceived threats such as sanctions, breakdowns in investment projects, cultivation of influencers, meddling in Russian elections, fostering ethnic animosity, and more, expressed parliamentarian Vasily Piskarev in his introduction of the bill in February.
However, foreign state agencies and organizations within which Russia is a participatory member will be exempt from this classification as “undesirable,” Piskarev mentioned.
According to ISW’s analysis in February, this legislation could significantly hinder reporting on Russian internal politics for foreign media with Russian-language services and journalists from Russian opposition media located abroad, as they would face bans from entering Russia.
FAQ Section
What does the ‘undesirable’ organizations list entail?
Organizations on this list are prohibited from conducting any activities in Russia. Moreover, sharing their content becomes illegal for individuals and media within the country.
How has the scope of ‘undesirable’ organizations expanded?
The new legislation now includes organizations that receive funding from foreign states, potentially including foreign media outlets.
What is the stated purpose of this legislation?
Russian officials claim the legislation is to protect against various threats including foreign sanctions, agent training, electoral interference, and incitement of ethnic hatred, among others.
Will any foreign organizations be exempt from this law?
Agencies of foreign states and international organizations of which Russia is a member will not be labeled undesirable.
What impact might this legislation have on journalism?
Reporting by Russian opposition media based outside of Russia, as well as foreign media outlets with Russian-language services, could become more challenging.
Conclusion
This recent move by Russian authorities to broaden the definition and reach of the law concerning ‘undesirable’ organizations underscores the ongoing efforts by the Russian government to control the narrative and stifle independent journalism and opposition. The impacts on freedom of speech, the press, and Russia’s civil society are set to be profound, limiting external influences and further consolidating the government’s authoritarian hold on information within the country.
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