Russian Federation

[RU] Act on State of Emergency Permits Censorship

IRIS 2001-9:1/38

Natalie Boudarina

Moscow Media Law and Policy Centre

On 1 June 2001, the Federal Constitutional Statute "On a State of Emergency" # 3-FKZ entered into force. A Presidential decree will declare a state of emergency if the constitutional rights of citizens and state security are threatened. Such a decree must be approved by the Council of the Federation, the higher chamber of the Federal Assembly. The President may introduce a state of emergency in the whole territory of the Russian Federation or in certain parts of it.

The Act establishes a list of extraordinary circumstances, which require special measures and temporary restrictions to protect citizens' rights; some of these concern the mass media.

Among them are prior censorship, requisitioning and seizure of press outlets as well as loudspeakers and radio transmitters. A Commandant, military or civil official, appointed by the President, establishes a special order to issue journalists' accreditation. He is also empowered to establish additional requirements in regard to journalists' activities in the territory affected by the state of emergency.

The act stipulates that the imposition of these measures is not mandatory. Their necessity is determined by the danger of impending circumstances.