The Ministry of Justice of Russia updated the list of 'undesirable' organizations, adding the British organization 'International House' and the Georgian public movement for access to justice 'Anmud', reports 'RIA Novosti'.
'International House' (International House World Organisation) — a network of language schools established in 1953. It currently includes more than 140 language schools in 50 countries worldwide.
'Anmud' (UNMODE) — a non-governmental organization that 'seeks systemic changes in international legislation and the legislation' of post-Soviet countries, 'through effective partnership with other NGOs'. The organization consists of human rights defenders, 'who have the skill or intention to openly defend human rights'.
The list of 'undesirable' organizations has been maintained in Russia since 2015. Foreign or international organizations can be recognized as 'undesirable' if, in the opinion of the authorities, they pose a 'threat to the foundations of the constitutional order of the Russian Federation, the country's defense capability, or state security'. Such organizations are prohibited from operating on the territory of the country.
Participation in the activities of an 'undesirable organization' is punishable by administrative liability in the form of a fine from 5,000 to 15,000 rubles. In the case of a repeated violation within a year after the first fine for participation in the activities of an 'undesirable' organization, criminal liability ensues.