Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Russia Puts International Women’s Media Foundation on ‘Undesirable’ List

Officials cite national security along with alleged links to Ukraine to justify tighter limits on foreign NGOs.

Overview

  • The Justice Ministry formally listed the US-based IWMF on February 2 following a Prosecutor General determination on January 19 and a January 30 order.
  • The designation prohibits the group’s activities in Russia and exposes Russians who cooperate with it to administrative fines or criminal liability.
  • IWMF supports women and non-binary media workers through safety and leadership programs worldwide, including work with journalists in Ukraine.
  • The registry was also expanded to include the European crypto exchange WhiteBit and its affiliate W Group, with prosecutors alleging about $11 million sent to Ukraine’s military since 2022.
  • Authorities likewise added Ukraine’s Regional Center for Human Rights, extending a pattern that has previously encompassed Human Rights Watch and Reporters Without Borders.