Russia moves to criminalize undeclared dual citizenship
| Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
| Publication Date | 20 May 2014 |
| Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Russia moves to criminalize undeclared dual citizenship, 20 May 2014, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/53a13a38d.html [accessed 21 May 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
May 20, 2014
Russia's parliament has given preliminary approval to legislation requiring Russians to declare dual citizenship or face criminal prosecution.
The State Duma on May 20 overwhelmingly backed the legislation in the second of three readings.
The bill would impose a fine of up to 200,000 rubles ($5,800) or 400 hours of community service on Russians who have citizenship in another country and fail to tell the authorities.
It was submitted by Andrei Lugovoi, a former KGB officer, who said that "dual citizenship reduces the significance of Russian nationality and respect for one's country."
He also said it was "particularly important" as Russia faces "aggressive pressure from the West."
Rights campaigner Svetlana Ganushkina said the legislation would put people with dual citizenship "under suspicion" and expose them to pressure from the authorities.
Based on reporting by Reuters and ITAR-TASS
Link to original story on RFE/RL website
