NGOs are regarded by Russia as spies

Who in Russia for political work receives money from Germany and other countries, must now be officially recognized as a "foreign agent". Despite all the criticism from abroad, the State Duma in the third and final reading of a new law took over the non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

If NGO workers not disclose assistance from abroad, they must reckon with money or even imprisonment. Human rights activists are concerned that they are marginalized and persecuted as spies. The EU and the U.S. have criticized the law.

All protest is under threat

According to the official representation, the law serves to prevent foreign countries from taking on the internal politics of Russia's influence. According to observers, the law is about the election observer organization Golos, the irregularities in the recent elections in Russia had denounced, and the anti-corruption organization Transparency International. Likely to be affected but also environmental organizations and activists campaigning for human rights and civil liberties.

Fundamental rights are restricted

But that's not all: In addition to the so-called "agent-law" has the nod from Putin's party "United Russia" dominated parliament three more laws that restrict the fundamental freedoms essential.

In the future, are clear demonstrations of compliance with drastic penalties than before - for individuals that are up to 300,000 rubbles (about 7500 €). When violations are also obstructing the road or entering of green spaces. The law is contributing to security and order, say proponents. In the view of civil rights activists, it is rather difficult for opposition rallies.

Even the notion of defamation in the Penal Code is again in the future, from which he had less than a year ago has been deleted. For libel, the law provides penalties of up to 500,000 rubbles (12,500 Euros) in front instead of a maximum of 3,000 rubbles. Journalists fear a muzzle. Moreover, the opposition should be silenced, my critics. Any way could end up because of criticism of the Kremlin United Russia party in court.

And finally, the authorities can block, with reference to the protection of children without a court decision websites. Opponents of the controversial law are to see the danger of abuse and the Internet censorship in the greatest country on earth. The law should limit the protest movement mobilized through the Internet. Officially content with child pornography, glorification of drug use and calls for suicide are listed as reasons for revocation.