How Russian dissidents are being punished by both Russia and Europe
Summary
Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a law that restricts services like passport renewal for Russians living abroad who are convicted of certain political crimes. At the same time, European countries are making it harder for those Russians who opposed the war in Ukraine to renew residency or seek asylum, leaving many stateless or without legal protection.Key Facts
- Putin’s new law limits consular services for Russians abroad who are convicted in political cases like violating the “foreign agent law” or criticizing the Russian army.
- Over 1,600 individuals and groups are currently labeled as “foreign agents” in Russia.
- European countries are tightening rules on Russian citizens seeking residency or asylum after opposing the war in Ukraine.
- More than 4,500 Russians have had their citizenship revoked since October 2023 under new legal provisions.
- Some Russians who oppose the regime are left stateless or unable to access protections tied to citizenship.
- The author personally lost Russian citizenship, was banned from entering Russia for 50 years, and had to obtain Armenian citizenship to maintain legal status.
- The historical context includes Russian citizens losing citizenship after the 1917 revolution, which led to special travel documents like the Nansen passport.
- Currently, there is a lack of new international measures to protect stateless people, as countries tighten immigration and humanitarian visa rules.
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