Putin Signs Decree Criminalizing Working With Unregistered NGOs, Analysts Warn Of Effects

Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree on August 4 that introduces penalties for people who work with unregistered international or nongovernmental organizations. The decree applies to NGOs that previously were not requested to register in Russia if they planned to conduct a single action or program. Under the decree, all NGOs must register and any cooperation with them must be registered. Analysts say the move appears aimed at intimidating NGOs and steering them away from cooperating with foreign organizations. Violators face a fine of up to 200,000 rubles ($2,074) or up to three years in jail. To read the original story on RFE/RL’s Russian Service, click here.