Medvedev Introduces Legislation to Relax Restrictions on Civic Organizations and NGO's

By Elizabeth A. Conger
Impunity Watch Reporter, Europe

MOSCOW, Russia - Russian President Dmitry Medvedev introduced legislation this week aimed at relaxing restrictions on civic organizations and non-governmental organizations operating in Russia. The legislation likely comes as part of an effort on behalf of the Kremlin to overhaul its international image as the first anniversary of Russia's war with Georgia draws near.

Human rights organizations have cautiously welcomed the reforms, having long criticized the government for blocking civic development. They caution that the changes, if passed by the Duma, are only the first step in loosening the restrictions imposed on civic organizations and NGO's.

 
Pictured:  Russian President Dmitry Medvedev  [Source: The Telegraph]

Under Putin, Russian leaders publicly vilified such groups as fronts for foreign intelligence agencies or terrorist groups. The Putin government sought to undercut the groups through implementation of intense bureaucratic regulation, harassment from enforcement and tax agencies, and specious lawsuits.  Laws were designed which required disproportionate action be taken against such agencies for the slightest violation. In recent years, leaders of such organizations have also faced an increasing number of physical attacks and verbal abuse.

Last month Medvedev convened an advisory board which included civic leaders and government officials whose purpose was to draft revisions to the laws governing NGO's. 

Holly Cartner, Europe and Central Asia director at Human Rights Watch said: "President Medvedev has taken the first steps to break from the increasingly authoritarian approach to civil society over the past nine years...Now he needs to make sure that the reform brings about real change, and push forward with other urgently needed measures to stop the bullying and pressure on nongovernmental organizations."

For more information, please see:

The Moscow News - NGOs set to get an easier ride - 18 June 2009

The Moscow Times - Bill to Ease NGO Law Sent to Duma - 18 June 2009

WSJ - Kremlin Creates Panel to Improve Russia's Image - 18 June 2009

Human Rights Watch - Russia: Let Civic Activity Flourish - 17 June 2009

Human Rights Watch Report - An Uncivil Approach to Civil Society - 17 June 2009

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