CRIMINAL LIABILITY FOR ENFORCEMENT OF FOREIGN SANCTIONS IN RUSSIA

It became known that clause 2 of art. 201 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation, “Abuse of Power”, will be amended by a new provision establishing liability for “actions taken in order to enforce decisions of foreign states to introduce restrictive measures against Russia.” The bill provides for a wide range of punishments for enforcement of foreign sanctions in Russia, up to 10 years imprisonment with a complimentary ling-term restriction on occupying certain positions.

“The core idea of the legislator is probably based on the belief that the imposition and enforcement of sanctions by foreign states or international organizations is the responsibility of these states and organizations, as well as their officials. However, if anyone in the Russian Federation attempts to abridge rights and freedoms of citizens, legal entities, state authorities or other organisations, such person should be held criminally liable,” — comments Madina Ruzmetova, an attorney with extensive prior experience as a member of staff of the Russian parliament.