#Power/Society

#Repressions

At least 168 people may become subjects of 'criminal cases' for non-compliance with 'foreign agent' duties due to new amendments by the State Duma

2025.09.26

Now those who have an 'administrative offense' for non-compliance with 'foreign agent' duties are subject to criminal prosecution, previously two 'administrative offenses' were required

According to calculations by 'OVD-Info'*, due to the new amendments in the State Duma, criminal prosecution threatens at least 168 people who were fined once under the article for violating the order of activity of a 'foreign agent' within the last year.

On the eve of the State Duma passing a bill to tighten responsibility for 'foreign agents'. Previously, a criminal case could be initiated against a person for evading 'foreign agent' duties if they were fined twice within a year for violating the order of activity of a 'foreign agent', but now one such protocol will be sufficient for criminal liability.

'This law is more about intimidation than real regulation. 'Foreign agents' already have the obligation to submit reports and label materials, but formal compliance with the rules has long ceased to guarantee safety. Any minor mistake or delay can become a reason for criminal prosecution. The status turns into a tool of constant pressure,' says lawyer Valeria Vetoshkina*.

By the end of 2024, 170 people received two fines under the administrative article for violating the order of activity of a 'foreign agent'. According to the 'Center for the Protection of Media Rights'*, last year criminal cases were initiated against 16 journalists for non-compliance with 'foreign agent' duties.

* Recognized as 'foreign agents' in Russia.

 

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