Russia Restricts Religious Freedom

Russian President Vladimir Putin signed an anti-terrorism bill into law that severely restricts religious freedom in Russia. The new law, known as the “Yarovaya law” after Irina Yarovaya who authored the text was drafted in the aftermath of the deadly bombing of a Russian aircraft, as well as the Paris attacks last November.

Critics, who dub the package the “Big Brother Law” due to its provisions governing social media, are concerned that the draconian legislation will greatly restrict evangelism and religious freedom. It is one of the most restrictive laws in post-soviet history, and resembles the Soviet Union in 1929.

The sweeping bill also requires telephone companies to store calls and text messages for at least 6 months. The law also increases the penalties for supporting, performing or financing terrorism, and includes internet appeals for terrorism or related public justification on social media.

But the big problem for Christians is the law’s effect on Christian missionaries. The bill restricts any activity if it is not undertaken by individuals who are affiliated with registered organizations. Foreign missionaries will not be allowed to speak at churches unless they have a work permit from Russian authorities; any kind of discussion about God with non-believers would be considered missionary activity and punishable by law. In addition, the location where such missionary work can unfold is restricted to registered houses of worship and related religious sites. Religious activities even in private homes will not be allowed, making the house church movement illegal.

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