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Russian authorities have labeled the international press freedom organization Reporters Without Borders as an "undesirable" organization, effectively banning its operations within the country, according to reports from Russian independent media outlets Thursday.
The Paris-based watchdog, known by its French acronym RSF, monitors journalist safety and advocates for unrestricted access to information globally. Russia's Justice Ministry added the organization to its blacklist on June 27, though the designation only appeared on the ministry's official website Thursday.
Russian authorities provided no explanation for the move against RSF.
The "undesirable" designation prohibits RSF from conducting any activities on Russian territory. Under Russian legislation, individuals found affiliated with blacklisted organizations face up to four years in prison, while organization leaders can receive sentences of up to six years.
Russia enacted its "undesirable organizations" law in 2015 as part of a broader crackdown targeting independent media outlets, opposition groups and foreign organizations operating within its borders. The legislation has since been used to blacklist hundreds of entities.
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