The National Democratic Institute for International Relations is a non-governmental organization established by the US government to promote democracy in developing countries. It is funded by the National Endowment for Democracy (NED) and private foundations. The organization «provides practical assistance to public and political figures promoting democratic values ​​and institutions, works with democrats in various regions of the world and helps to create political and public organizations, ensure fair elections and promote civic participation, openness and accountability in governments».

In Russia, the organization began its work in the 1980s: it conducted political trainings and debates, international exchange of experience for young politicians.

Name
National Democratic Institute for International Affairs
Field of activity
Political entities
Status
«Undesirable organization»
Reason for recognition
National Democratic Institute for International Affairs was declared an "undesired" organization as, by The General Presecutor's Office desicion, it "threatens the basics of the constitutional order and security" of Russia.
Year of recognition
2016
Status description
Since 2015, this status can be assigned to foreign and international non-governmental organizations that, in the opinion of the Russian government, pose a threat to the foundations of the constitutional order of the Russian Federation, the defense capability of the country, or state security. Since 2021, this registry also includes those who cooperate with «undesirable organizations». Who recognizes: Prosecutor General’s Office in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Cooperating organizations are entered into the register by the Prosecutor General’s Office independently. Restrictions: Recognition of an organization as «undesirable» entails a complete ban on its activities in Russia. Russian citizens and Russian legal entities are not allowed to cooperate with it either on or off the territory of Russia. A website that distributes information materials of an «undesirable organization» may be blocked. Formally, there is no administrative or criminal responsibility for this, but law enforcement authorities may interpret it as participation in the activities of an «undesirable organization». Administrative liability: Participation in the activities of an «undesirable organization», a fine of up to 100 thousand rubles (Art. 20.33 of the Code of Administrative Offences). Criminal liability: Participation in the activities of an «undesirable organization», if the person has previously been held administratively liable, a fine of up to 500 thousand rubles or imprisonment for up to four years with deprivation of the right to hold certain positions or engage in certain activities. The organization of such activities faces imprisonment for up to six years. (Article 284.1 of the Criminal Code) Providing funds or raising funds for an «undesirable organization» can carry a prison sentence of up to five years.