Russia passes 'civil death' legislation to freeze exiled critics' assets, block passports, and cut consular aid
Russia's State Duma passed laws creating a public registry of 'enemies of the people' and imposing restrictions on those convicted in Russia but abroad, including in political cases. Human rights advocates call it a de facto stripping of citizenship.
On July 22, Russia's State Duma adopted two bills aimed at ensuring the 'inevitability of punishment' for individuals evading justice abroad. Human rights organization First Department directly calls the new rules a path toward de facto stripping of citizenship from regime opponents prosecuted under political articles of the Criminal Code.
One of the laws introduces 'temporary restrictive measures' against people convicted in Russia who are abroad and evading punishment. They will be entered into a new public registry — a kind of 'enemies of the people' list. The second document simultaneously amends 11 federal laws.
While on paper the restrictions can apply to anyone dodging punishment in a criminal case, the list of administrative offenses triggering the measures is political: 'foreign agent' violations, participation in 'undesirable organizations', calls to violate territorial integrity, calls for sanctions, 'discrediting' the army, etc.
The Justice Ministry will decide on each case individually based on proposals from the FSB, Interior Ministry, Bailiff Service, Tax Service, and Prosecutor General's Office. The president must also issue a decree to create an interagency commission.
Restrictions include freezing all assets including money in Russian banks, transferring income to a special account, banning real estate and vehicle sales, prohibiting use of the Gosuslugi portal and internet banking, and denying certain consular services. For instance, consulates will not accept applications for renouncing citizenship, obtaining new passports, marriage registration, or name changes. If detained, consular officials will not visit or provide legal assistance.
The measures are called temporary because they can be lifted if the person returns to Russia, gets the conviction overturned remotely, or complies with the court ruling. However, human rights groups warn that the law could take effect before the end of summer, as soon as the president signs it.
Experts advise at-risk Russian citizens to obtain a second passport and sell major assets in Russia before the law comes into force.
