Russia: Further restrictions on CSOs designated as ‘Foreign Agents’
CSO “foreign agents” will not be included on the list of socially-oriented CSOs (SONGOs)
08.04.2025
Article published on the ASI website
Russian State Duma deputies have unanimously supported the adoption of four laws, increasing the level of control over “foreign agent” activities.
On 8 April, the State Duma adopted the second and third readings of a bill that prohibits “foreign agents” from engaging in educational or awareness-raising activities.
In addition, “foreign agents” will not be allowed to hold teaching positions in State or municipal educational establishments. According to the bill, an organisation will have its educational licence withdrawn if the Federation’s Justice Ministry adds them to the “foreign agents” register. “Foreign agents” are also prohibited from receiving funds from all Federation budgets.
The bill also states that a CSO, which has been recognised as a “foreign agent”, will not be eligible for inclusion on the list of socially-oriented CSOs.
“The register of SONGOs is a list of proven and dependable CSOs that have a successful track record in tackling social issues. Being on the list enables SONGOs to attract donations from benefactors who, in turn, receive tax incentives”.
“The advertising of some CSO “foreign agents” is very basic, as is the case for social issues. As a result, their presence on the register undermines their credibility and leads to requests for project funding that are not in the State’s interests”, said Olga Zanko, Deputy Chair of the Duma’s Civil Society Development Committee, during the bill’s first reading.
The amendments will come into effect on 1 September.
