The High Representative is very concerned by the recent judgments imposing fines on
the civil society organization “GOLOS” and its director Ms Lilia Shibanova, as well as
the obligation on GOLOS to register as a “Foreign Agent”. The work of GOLOS for
free and fair elections contributes to the implementation of international commitments
which Russia has agreed to, notably within the Council of Europe and the OSCE.
The High Representative is very concerned by the recent judgments imposing fines on
the civil society organization “GOLOS” and its director Ms Lilia Shibanova, as well as
the obligation on GOLOS to register as a “Foreign Agent”. The work of GOLOS for
free and fair elections contributes to the implementation of international commitments
which Russia has agreed to, notably within the Council of Europe and the OSCE.
The ruling confirms widespread worries both inside and outside Russia regarding the
implementation of the “Foreign Agent” law.
The EU has repeatedly expressed its concerns about growing pressure on civil society,
the recent wave of restrictive legislation on ,GOs and the widespread checks on their
activities. The EU will continue to monitor developments closely.”