Russia bans Human Rights Watch in widening crackdown on critics
Summary
Russian authorities have declared Human Rights Watch an "undesirable organization," making it illegal for the group to operate in the country. This move is part of a wider crackdown on organizations and individuals that criticize the Russian government, especially since the start of its military actions in Ukraine. The decision affects both foreign and domestic groups that have been labeled by Russia as undesirable or extremist.Key Facts
- Russia has banned Human Rights Watch, labeling it an "undesirable organization."
- The ban makes it a criminal offense to work with or support Human Rights Watch in Russia.
- Human Rights Watch has criticized Russia’s actions in Ukraine and its suppression of dissent.
- The ban is part of a broader Russian crackdown on critics since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
- Russia also targets other groups like the Anti-Corruption Foundation and Pussy Riot with similar measures.
- The country’s list of undesirable organizations includes over 275 entities, affecting many international and domestic groups.
- Russia's communications watchdog threatened to block WhatsApp for not complying with local laws.
- Russia is promoting a state-backed messaging app, MAX, as an alternative to foreign platforms like WhatsApp.
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