Russia's State Duma passes law restricting political exiles abroad
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Russia's State Duma passed a law in its second and third readings imposing new restrictions on citizens abroad who are accused of evading administrative liability. The law limits access to passports, consular services, banking apps, and property transactions for those facing charges under 'foreign agent' and other politically motivated articles.
Key Restrictions
The law targets Russian citizens abroad who are accused of evading administrative liability, including those charged under articles on 'foreign agent' violations, participation in 'undesirable organizations', discrediting the Armed Forces, and calls for sanctions. Such individuals may face restrictions on obtaining foreign passports, consular services, access to Russian banking apps, and use of electronic signatures. Property transactions and funds in Russia can be blocked, and registration as an individual entrepreneur or self-employed will be prohibited. Previously issued licenses may also be suspended.
Registry and Enforcement
A special registry of affected individuals will be maintained by the Prosecutor General's Office, Ministry of Justice, and law enforcement agencies. The law also allows recovery of court costs from frozen accounts. A presidential commission may authorize payments to family members from blocked funds if the individual was the sole breadwinner.
Reactions
Human rights organizations criticized the initiative as a 'law on de facto deprivation of citizenship'. State Duma Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin stated the document targets citizens who, in his view, 'harm the country' from abroad. The law will take effect upon official publication after the president's signature.
What's Next
The law now awaits President Vladimir Putin's signature before entering into force. It remains unclear how the registry will be implemented and whether it will face legal challenges.
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Russia's State Duma passes law restricting political exiles abroad
