[wanabidii] Press Releases: Designation under Russia's "Undesirables" Law of the Open Society Foundations

You are subscribed to Press Releases for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Press Releases: Designation under Russia's "Undesirables" Law of the Open Society Foundations 11/30/2015 03:19 PM EST Designation under Russia's "Undesirables" Law of the Open Society Foundations Press Statement Mark C. Toner Deputy Department Spokesperson Washington, DC November 30, 2015 We are deeply troubled by Russia’s continued restrictions against civil society organizations in Russia.  Today’s designation of the Open Society Foundations and the Open Society Institute Assistance Foundation as so-called “undesirable” organizations will only further restrict the work of civil society in Russia for the benefit of the Russian people.  This action is yet another example of the Russian Government’s growing crackdown on independent voices and a deliberate step to further isolate the Russian people from the world.   We continue to be concerned about increasing restrictions on independent media, civil society, members of minority groups, and those seeking a voice in their government.  Russians, like people everywhere, deserve an open marketplace of ideas, transparent and accountable governance, equal treatment under the law, and the ability to exercise their rights without fear of retribution.  We urge the Government of Russia to uphold its international obligations and commitments to respect the freedoms of expression, peaceful assembly, and association, and the rule of law.  The Office of Website Management, Bureau of Public Affairs, manages this site as a portal for information from the U.S. State Department. External links to other Internet sites should not be construed as an endorsement of the views or privacy policies contained therein. Stay connected with the State Department:       External links found in this content or on Department of State websites that go to other non-Department websites should not be construed as an endorsement of the views or privacy policies contained therein.  Update your subscriptions, modify your password or email address, or stop subscriptions at any time on your Subscriber Preferences Page. You will need to use your email address to log in. If you have questions or problems with the subscription service, please visit subscriberhelp.govdelivery.com. This service is provided to you at no charge by U.S. Department of State. This email was sent to wanabidii@googlegroups.com using GovDelivery, on behalf of: U.S. Department of State · 2201 C Street NW · Washington, DC 20520