The Russian NGO Golos was fined RUB 300 000 (Approx. US$ 9 580) for failing to register as a “foreign agent”. Lilia Shibanova, who is in charge of the organisation was fined RUB 100 000 (Approx. US$ 3 194). The judgment also requires Golos to now register as a “foreign agent”.
Golos has played an important role in the development of civil society in Russia through its election monitoring activities. In recognition of this work, the organisation was awarded the 2012 Andrei Sakharov Freedom Award by the Norwegian Helsinki Committee.
“It is difficult to understand why the award of this prize should have led to this judgment,” said Mr. Eide.
The Norwegian authorities have expressed concern about the situation for NGOs in Russia on a number of occasions, most recently during Prime Minister Stoltenberg’s meeting with Prime Minister Medvedev in St Petersburg on April 5. The Norwegian Embassy was present at today’s court hearing as an observer.
“A free and dynamic civil society is vital for the development of democracy. Cooperation between NGOs in Norway and Russia is also an important part of our bilateral relations. We expect Russia to fulfil its obligations as a member of the Council of Europe,” said Mr. Eide.