Russia: Implemented Amendment to the Code of Administrative Offenses on administrative liability for spreading misinformation on the Russian Army (Federal Law No. 31-FZ)

On 4 March 2022, Federal Law No. 31-FZ on Amendments to the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation, clarifying administrative liability for spreading misinformation on the Russian Army, was implemented after it was adopted, signed and published in the official journal on the same day. The Law states that actions discrediting the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, including the distribution of information calling for the prevention of the Armed Forces activities and restrictive measures against Russia, are punishable with a fine of RUB 30’000 to 50’000 for citizens and RUB 300’000 to 500’000 for entities. Furthermore, the Law specifies that if the actions are accompanied by calls for unauthorised public events that could result in harm to citizens or public order or disrupt the functioning of the critical transport or social infrastructure, energy, industry or communications facilities, the fines range for RUB 50’000 to 100’000 for citizens and RUB 500’00 to 1 million for entities.