Russia: Implemented Federal Law No. 32-FZ introducing criminal liability for spreading misinformation on Russian Army

On 4 March 2022, Federal Law No. 32-FZ enters into force after it was adopted by the Federal Council and signed into law on the same day by the President of the Russian Federation. Law No. 32-FZ amends Articles 31 and 151 of the Criminal Code and imposes penalties for the spread of information regarding the Russian army that was classified by the government as false. Firstly, the Bill criminalizes the public dissemination of allegedly false information about the Armed Forces, citizens face a fine of RUB 700’000 to 1.5 million or imprisonment of 3 years. If the information is disseminated by public officials or organized groups, the fine ranges from RUB 3 million to 5 million and the term of imprisonment can be up to 10 years. Secondly, the Bill introduces higher penalties for the dissemination of alleged false information that caused serious consequences, individuals could face imprisonment of 10 to 15 years. Finally, the Bill penalizes the public calls to prevent or stop the use of the Russian Armed Forces. Citizens face a fine of RUB 100’000 to 200’000 and officials a fine ranging from RUB 300’000 to 500’000. The public calls for sanctions against Russia are punished with a fine of RUB 500’000 or imprisonment for up to 3 years.