The State Duma in Russia has passed a bill that seeks to facilitate the seizure of monetary assets and properties from individuals identified as disseminating false information. The legislation, passed on Wednesday, also targets individuals found to be contributing to the ongoing invasion of Ukraine, according to a report by JURIST.
Chairman of the State Duma, Vyacheslav Volodin, disclosed the information via his Telegram channel. He stated that the bill was designed to target those defaming the country or supporting enemies while living comfortably abroad and feeling immune to justice. He also announced that the bill identified as a crime against Russia’s security managed to garner 395 votes in favor.
The details of the bill were revealed in advance by Volodin. According to him, the bill allows for the confiscation of funds or assets used for alleged criminal activities against Russian security. Violations specified in Articles 207, 354, and 280 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation, 1996 are also addressed by this legislation.
The law appears to fall in line with increasing censorship measures enforced throughout the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine. The severity of penalties it imposes – including sentencing of up to 15 years in prison – for spreading or reporting what is defined as “false information” related to the invasion reflect a trend towards restricting media coverage.
As global legal professionals, it is essential to be aware of these changes in legislation that indicate shifts in the broader political and information landscapes, and their potential impact on international legal and business conduct.