Russia new law on religion

In July 2020, Russia's President Vladimir Putin signed a new law aimed at regulating religious activities in the country. The law, known as Federal Law No. 258-FZ, introduces several significant changes to Russia's religious legislation. Here are some key aspects of the new law:

  1. Registration of religious organizations: The law requires all religious organizations to re-register with the government by January 2021. This means that existing religious organizations must submit new registration applications, which will be reviewed by the Ministry of Justice.
  2. New criteria for registration: The law introduces stricter criteria for registering religious organizations. To be eligible for registration, a religious organization must:
    • Have at least 50 members.
    • Have a clear organizational structure.
    • Have a designated leader or representative.
    • Not have any ties to extremist or terrorist organizations.
  3. Restrictions on foreign funding: The law prohibits foreign organizations from funding religious activities in Russia. This means that religious organizations must rely on domestic funding sources.
  4. Increased government oversight: The law gives the government more power to monitor and regulate religious activities. The Ministry of Justice will be responsible for overseeing the registration and activities of religious organizations.
  5. Penalties for non-compliance: The law introduces penalties for religious organizations that fail to comply with the new regulations. These penalties can include fines, suspension of activities, or even liquidation of the organization.
  6. Definition of "extremist": The law defines "extremist" as a religious organization that promotes violence, hatred, or discrimination against any individual or group based on their race, ethnicity, religion, or other characteristics.
  7. Prohibition on missionary work: The law prohibits religious organizations from engaging in missionary work in public places, such as streets, parks, or public transportation.
  8. Restrictions on religious literature: The law requires religious organizations to obtain government approval before publishing or distributing religious literature.
  9. Increased scrutiny of religious education: The law introduces stricter regulations on religious education, including requirements for religious schools and institutions to obtain government approval and certification.
  10. Impact on minority religions: The law has raised concerns among minority religious groups, including Muslims, Jews, and Buddhists, who fear that the new regulations will restrict their ability to practice their faith freely.

Overall, the new law aims to increase government control over religious activities in Russia and to prevent the spread of "extremist" ideologies. However, critics argue that the law will lead to increased persecution of minority religious groups and restrict religious freedom in the country.