The Federation Council unanimously banned advertising from foreign agents

At the meeting, the Federation Council unanimously approved a law on a complete ban on advertising on all information resources of foreign agents, as well as advertising of such resources. The ban applies to all platforms: websites, blogs and social networks. The initiative was supported by 165 senators.

The law also prohibits media or specialized agencies from advertising foreign agents. The restrictions do not affect information messages mentioning foreign agents if they have the necessary markings. The ban applies to advertising materials that, for example, contain a link to a foreign agent’s resource.

According to the law, the fine for placing advertising on one’s resources at the request of foreign agents will be up to 50 thousand rubles for citizens, and up to 500 thousand rubles for legal entities. In case of violation after being brought to administrative responsibility twice, the foreign agent will face punishment under the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation – up to two years in prison. Fines for advertising companies and media will amount to up to 300 thousand rubles.

Law Project was introduced a group of 395 deputies led by Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin on February 15. On February 28, State Duma deputies adopted it in the third reading. On the same day, journalist and TV presenter Katerina Gordeeva (declared a foreign agent) stated about the closure of the Youtube project “Tell Gordeeva”. March 2, journalist Alexey Pivovarov (declared a foreign agent) reportedthat he fired a significant part of the team of his “Editorial” project, because because of the bill he could not pay salaries to employees.

For more information about what other restrictions for foreign agents are being discussed in the State Duma, see material “Ъ”.

Milena Kostereva