The State Duma deprives Russian citizens of the freedom of movement
Statement by the YABLOKO party, 11.12.2013
Today the State Duma is considering the so-called “rubber flats law” law (Ed. The flats where dozens of people may be registered despite their actual place of living) in the second reading.
The law virtually returns the Soviet institution of registration under the guise of combating illegal foreign migrants.
The law introduces a new concept of “fictitious registration, i.e. registration without the intention to reside in the premises. “Fictitious registration” becomes a felony with a penalty of up to three years of imprisonment.
The State Duma will label criminals millions of Russians who have registered in their homes their relatives and friends.
The authorities makes it clear that registration regime will be especially tough in Moscow and St. Petersburg, and that total checks on passports in the streets may return. Also in violation of the Constitution introduced higher penalties for living without registration will be introduced in Moscow and St.Petersburg.
It is symbolic that the law destroying the constitutional right to freedom of movement will be considered on the on the eve of the 20th anniversary of the Russian Constitution [of the 12th of December].
The YABLOKO party demands from the State Duma to reject the draft law.
Sergei Mitrokhin,
YABLOKO Chairman
Posted: December 11th, 2013 under Human Rights.