Russian State Duma strengthens liability for involvement in ‘undesirable organizations’

The State Duma has approved the third and final reading of a law strengthening liability for involvement in the activities of organizations that are banned in Russia as “undesirable.”

Now, individuals involved in the activities of “undesirable organizations” as ordinary members will face criminal liability after their first administrative offense (rather than after their second misdemeanor), whereas the leaders of such groups will face criminal prosecution automatically.

In addition, providing financial services or making donations to an “undesirable organization” is now punishable by either community service, compulsory labor, or between one and five years in prison.

On June 9, the Russian State Duma adopted a law banning Russian citizens from taking part in the work of “undesirable organizations,” even if they’re located abroad. This law also allows Russia’s state financial watchdog (Rosfinmonitoring) to obtain information about any money transfers from abroad.