Stanford, declared “undesirable” in Russia, among other top universities. Students and collaborators face prison terms
Russia included Stanford University in the list of organizations “undesirables”, a decision that exposes individuals affiliated with the institution to severe legal risks, including prison terms. Russians who study at several institutions abroad may face legal consequences upon returning to the country. The Russian authorities have not provided an official explanation for this decision.
Russia has included Stanford University on its list of “undesirable” organizations. PHOTO: archive
The measure, adopted by the Russian Ministry of Justice on Friday, April 10, is part of a broad campaign by the Kremlin to restrict civil society and international collaborations, intensified after the launch of Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Russian authorities have not offered an official explanation for the inclusion of the American university on this list.
With this designation, any connection with the institution – including academic collaborations or studies – may attract sanctions. Affiliates face up to four years in prison, and leaders of targeted organizations can face up to six years, Kyiv Independent.
The university's Center for Russian, East European and Eurasian Studies (CREEES) was also included on the list.
Law on Organizations “undesirables”, adopted in 2015, it has been frequently used by the authorities to target NGOs, independent media outlets and human rights organizations deemed critical of the regime led by President Vladimir Putin. These organizations are no longer allowed to operate on the territory of Russia, and the distribution of their materials is prohibited.
The decision comes shortly after Tufts University was, in turn, included on the list of “undesirable” organizations, being accused by the Russian authorities of “anti-Russian propaganda”.
To date, Russia has designated at least 19 Western universities as such “undesirables”, including Yale University, Bard College, University of California Berkeley, and George Washington University.
Russian citizens who study at these institutions abroad may face legal consequences upon returning to the country, and international academic relations are becoming increasingly restricted.
