In society

Quality certificate

July 31, 2015 Alexander Podrabinek

Open letter to the president of National Endowment for Democracy, Mr. Karl Gerschman

On July 8, Deputy Prosecutor General of the Russian Federation Vladimir Malinovsky signed a decision to recognize the activities of the National Fund for Democracy in Russia undesirable in Russia. Thus, the NED became the first foreign non -governmental organization in Russia, which is “undesirable”.

Dear Karl Gershman!

For many years of our acquaintance, and at times and cooperation I first appeal to you publicly. The reason for this is not only important, but also symbolic. The Prosecutor General’s Office of our country praised the effectiveness of the fund you head, prohibiting its activities in Russia.

What recognition can be more valuable than the recognition of the enemy? For more than 30 years, the National Fund for Democracy has been investing the funds, the experience and strength of its employees in support of democratic initiatives around the world. This is a very difficult job; I had the opportunity to make sure of this more than once.

NED supported human rights projects in such countries and at such a time, in comparison with which today's Russia may seem an oasis of liberalism. The only trouble is that the current Russian government dreams of a return to the past and does everything possible for this. Therefore, NED is declared an unwanted organization. For today's Russian authorities, this is a burden, and for tomorrow is a direct threat.

Unfortunately, Russian officials and Kremlin politicians do not understand that human rights do not know state borders, they are universal and in demand in all countries without exception. Narred people in power think that, having forbidden the activities of your fund in Russia, they will deprive people of hope of freedom and thereby strengthen their power. They make the same mistake from generation to generation, relying on strength, and not on the support of society.

NED was the first undesirable foreign organization in Russia. Please consider this fact as a kind of quality certificate issued by the Prosecutor General of the Russian Federation. And of course, do not forget that a huge number of people in our country are grateful to your fund for their contribution to the democratic development of Russia.

With the wishes of further success,

Alexander Podrabinek


Photo by TASS/ Dmitry Fomichev