The Hudson Institute and the Foundation for Democratic Development, registered in the United States, were recognized in Russia as “undesirable organizations” in September. This became known from the updated list of “undesirable organizations” of the Ministry of Justice.
The Foundation for Democratic Development is an NGO whose mission is formulated as supporting civil society in Eastern Europe, the South Caucasus and Central Asia in the struggle for free participation in democratic processes, free access to information and social justice. The foundation exists on European and American grants and private donations and is not affiliated with political parties or businesses. The organization was declared “undesirable” on September 18.
The Hudson Institute is a think tank founded in 1961 by members of the non-profit organization RAND Corporation. The institute's stated purpose is to "advance American leadership and global engagement for a secure, free and prosperous future." Included in the register of the Ministry of Justice on September 13.
- In accordance with Russian legislation, foreign or international organizations can be recognized as “undesirable” if, in the opinion of the authorities, they pose “a threat to the foundations of the constitutional system of the Russian Federation, the defense capability of the country or the security of the state.” Such organizations are prohibited from operating in the country, and a number of other restrictions are also imposed on them - for example, they are not allowed to distribute information materials in Russia.
- For participation in the activities of an “undesirable” organization, administrative liability is provided (Article 20.33 of the Code of Administrative Offenses, the maximum penalty is a fine of up to 15 thousand rubles for citizens), and then criminal liability (Part 1 of Article 284.1 of the Criminal Code, the maximum penalty is imprisonment for up to four years). Article 284.1 also applies to financing or organizing the activities of an “undesirable” organization, in which case the punishment can be up to five and six years in prison, respectively.