Environmental NGO Greenpeace declared ‘undesirable’ in Russia

The fight against the climate crisis persona non grata in Russia. Justice declared Friday, May 19 “undesirable” the NGO Greenpeace, a measure that de facto prohibits its activities in the country.

In a statement, the Russian General Prosecutor’s Office says that Greenpeace International, headquartered in the Netherlands, represents a “threat to the foundations of the constitutional order and to security” of Russia and seeks to “overthrow the power in an unconstitutional way”.

Accused of “anti-Russian propaganda”

The prosecution accuses Greenpeace of encouraging “interference” in the internal affairs of Russia, to seek to “undermine its economic foundations” and to finance Russian organizations qualified by the authorities of“foreign agents”. He also accuses him of leading “anti-Russian propaganda” and call “to strengthen the sanctions” against Russia since the start of the war in Ukraine.

“The liquidation of Greenpeace in Russia is an absurd, irresponsible and destructive measure that has nothing to do with protecting the interests of the country”said the NGO on its website in Russian. The Russian branch of the NGO, opened in 1992, carries out operations in the country to raise awareness of global warming, to fight against forest fires, against pollution, and to preserve endangered animal species.

According to the specialized NGO OVD-Info, the organizations classified “undesirables” in Russia are prohibited from opening structures, carrying out projects and disseminating information there. Since the offensive in Ukraine, the Russian authorities have greatly accelerated the repression of critical voices. This repression affects all areas, such as cultural circles and environmental organizations.