Designation by Russian Authorities
The Russian Ministry of Justice has officially declared the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) an 'undesirable organization,' a decision that effectively criminalizes the group's activities within the Russian Federation. The designation, made by the Russian Prosecutor General's Office in November and publicly reported around November 2, 2025, adds FIDH to a growing list of international and foreign non-governmental organizations banned in Russia.
FIDH, a global human rights watchdog founded in 1922, unites 196 human rights organizations across 116 countries. The organization has been known for its advocacy, including its role in establishing the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague and its recent appeals to the ICC to investigate Russian propagandists for inciting hatred.
Implications of 'Undesirable' Status
The 'undesirable organization' law, signed by President Vladimir Putin on May 23, 2015, grants prosecutors the authority to ban foreign and international organizations deemed to pose 'a threat to the foundation of the constitutional order of the Russian Federation, the defense capability of the country or the security of the state.' This status carries severe consequences, including:
- A complete ban on the organization's operations within Russia.
- Prohibition of public events and distribution of promotional materials.
- Heavy fines for organizations and individuals who cooperate with them.
- Potential prison sentences of up to six years for individuals affiliated with such organizations, even for actions taken outside Russia.
- Blocking of websites and freezing of assets.
The law has been increasingly utilized since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, targeting a wide array of human rights groups, independent media outlets, and civil society organizations.
FIDH's Stance and Broader Context
The designation means that any cooperation with FIDH, including by Russian citizens or entities, is now illegal and can lead to administrative and criminal penalties. The authorities interpret 'engagement' broadly, encompassing sharing or reposting materials, even if done before the organization was labeled 'undesirable.'
This move against FIDH is part of a broader trend in Russia to suppress dissent and restrict the activities of organizations critical of the government. As of December 2, 2025, the Ministry of Justice had declared 281 overseas and international non-governmental organizations 'undesirable' in Russia. Human rights organizations, including Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, have also been designated 'undesirable' in recent years, facing similar bans and legal repercussions.
5 Comments
Raphael
It's understandable that Russia might view some foreign organizations as interfering, yet the sweeping nature of this 'undesirable' law stifles all forms of independent civil society.
Leonardo
FIDH's advocacy for the ICC could be seen as a challenge to Russia's narrative, but banning them outright seems like an extreme response rather than engagement.
Michelangelo
On one hand, Russia cites threats to its constitutional order. On the other, historically, such designations often precede further crackdowns on fundamental freedoms.
Donatello
Another shocking move by an increasingly authoritarian regime.
Raphael
While states have a right to national security, broadly criminalizing human rights groups raises serious concerns about suppressing legitimate dissent.