Moscow: The Kremlin is intensifying its control over Russian expatriates by introducing a new law that severely restricts their access to basic legal services, a move akin to a “civil death” for those living outside Russia. This latest development, signed into law by President Vladimir Putin on August 4, affects Russians convicted of administrative misdemeanors or criminal felonies, who now face prohibitions on renewing passports or notarizing documents like marriage certificates.
According to Radio Free Europe Radio Liberty, the law primarily targets activists, individuals associated with foreign-funded organizations, and others who have criticized Russia’s military actions in Ukraine. This legislation affects thousands, if not tens of thousands, of Russians abroad, creating a dire situation where they could effectively become stateless. Russian researcher Tanya Lokshina from Human Rights Watch has described this as a state of “de-facto statelessness,” where Russian citizens, while retaining their nationality, are denied access to consular services.
The law is part of a broader strategy by Russian authorities to clamp down on dissent. It builds on previous measures such as the “foreign agent” law and the “undesirables” law, which have been used to silence opposition voices and punish those with foreign associations. The new regulations also empower officials to freeze bank accounts and restrict the sale of assets like real estate, further complicating life for those abroad.
Gleb Bogush, a Russian lawyer now residing in Berlin, noted that this measure serves as a warning to both expatriates and those still in Russia, aiming to instill fear and suppress opposition. The law comes at a time when the Kremlin is managing both the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and internal dissatisfaction, exacerbated by a struggling economy and concerns over upcoming parliamentary elections.
This development has left many Russian exiles in a precarious position, facing challenges in obtaining necessary documents or support in their host countries. As Bogush pointed out, these individuals often face suspicion and lack of support, further isolating them in their new environments. The Kremlin’s latest move underscores a growing trend of targeting its own citizens as it seeks to maintain control and suppress dissent.