“Sakharov Institute” and the movement named after him are recognised as “undesirable”

Information about this appeared on the website of the Russian Ministry of Justice; the decision on the listing was dated 22 July.

It is noteworthy that the Sakharov Institute, at least, has a legal entity in Europe, while the movement “Peace. Progress. Human Rights” is a completely informal structure, a community of people with no legal entities, no relations with them, no employees, and no budget. A similar situation was with the Golos movement, but at least there the name was retained, as in the case of Open Russia. But in our case, these are different entities, created separately from each other.

But that’s just lyrics, but the essential question is what and to whom this decision threatens.

Today, people in Russia (and about 80% of our audience remains in Russia) can be prosecuted for participating in the activities of an “undesirable” organisation. For this, administrative cases are opened and fines are imposed. In case of repetition (if there is a decision on bringing to administrative responsibility that has come into force) – a criminal case may be initiated under Article 284.1 of the Criminal Code, with possible imprisonment for up to 4 years.

In case of participation in fundraising/financing – up to 5 years of imprisonment. In case of organising activities (as an example – the case of Pivovarov and Melkonyants) – up to 6 years of imprisonment. All these concepts are interpreted broadly and arbitrarily.

“Participation” can mean, for example, distribution of materials and logos. So be as careful as possible, the last thing we need is for someone to get hurt. Active and concerned people in Russia are the most important thing that the Russian opposition and human rights organisations still have left.

The useful work that we can still do publicly and non-publicly, we will try to maintain, given the new risks and restrictions.

We are somewhat surprised, of course. But in our time, it is surprise itself that causes surprise at such news.

 

Source: Peace. Progress. Human rights