Press Statement Sean McCormack, Spokesman Washington, DC January 19, 2006
Russian Non-Governmental Organization LawThe United States urges the Russian Government to ensure that implementation of the Russian law on Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), which President Putin signed January 10 but was officially reported on January 17, not restrict the space for civil society in Russia. We have repeatedly conveyed our serious concerns about the legislation to the Russian Government and will continue to monitor implementation of the law and its impact on Russian civil society closely. In accordance with the Russian Government's international commitments concerning freedom of assembly and freedom of association, we urge it to enact regulations that eliminate the possibility for arbitrary implementation and facilitate, rather than hinder, the vital work of NGOs.
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Released on January 19, 2006
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