In its first (out of three) reading, the Duma has endorsed a bill that would ultimately impose contrainsts on citizen activism, the closure of many Russian NGOs and even the departure of foreign NGOs. Besides, it has come to light that Russia is set to ban two European NGOs - British group CPCD and Germany’s HELP - that have been involved in providing aid for Chechen refugees.
The draft bill proposes that NGOs will have to go through a re-registration procedure which will allow registration authorities to audit the activities and finances of NGOs (without limitations). All informal groups will have to inform the governement of their existence. Foreing citizens will be prohibited from establishing NGOs or becoming members of NGOs and foreign NGOs will have to register as local public organisations. The bill also foresees that all existing representative offices and branches of foreign non-governmental organizations will be outlawed.
Action from the Civil Society Contact Group
Concerned by the serious attempt to undermine democracy in Russia, the EU Civil Society Contact Group (CSCG), - which represents seven large rights and value based NGO sectors at EU level (environment, social, development, women, culture, human rights and public health) - has sent letters to the European Commission, European Parliament and the UK presidency of the European Union on 5 December 2005 urging them to speak up on a crucial piece of legislation which could see the closure of many Russian-based foreign NGOs.
Letter to Josep Borell, president of the European Parliament
Letter sent to José Manuel Barroso, president of the European Commission
Letter sent to the UK Presidency of the European Union
CSCG actions about the Russian bill
Reaction of the Austrian presidency of the European Union and the Council of Europe
In a recent press statement, the Austrian presidency said that the European Union had made clear to the Russian federation its concerns over the possible effects of the bill. In particular, the EU stressed the importance it attaches to freedom of expression and association.
The presidency also stated the EU would follow closely the implementation of the law once it comes into force, in order to ensure that it complies with standards and commitments undertaken within the framework of the Council of Europe and the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) ().
Following a request from the Russian Federation, the Council of Europe provided an opinion on the alleged bill, which reinforces NGOs concerns. The Council of Europe considers that the bill could violate the European Convention on Human Rights.
Related EPHA article: Code of conduct for non-profit organisations
