Federation Council Approves New Laws Impacting Foreign Agents and Education
On December 20, 2024, the Federation Council of Russia convened a plenary session where it approved a series of significant laws affecting various sectors, including education and national security. A total of 92 issues were discussed during the meeting, reflecting the government's ongoing efforts to regulate foreign influence and enhance domestic policies.
New Regulations for Migrant Schoolchildren
One of the most notable laws introduced is a ban on enrolling migrant children who do not speak Russian in schools. This legislation stipulates that foreign students must demonstrate proficiency in the Russian language through a free test before they can enroll in basic general education programs. Federation Council Chairperson Valentina Matviyenko emphasized that this law is not intended to be prohibitive but aims to ensure that children can fully benefit from their education. The requirement is seen as a necessary measure to alleviate the challenges faced by teachers when instructing students who lack language skills.
Special Ruble Accounts for Foreign Agents
In a move to tighten control over foreign agents, the Federation Council has approved legislation mandating the establishment of special ruble accounts for these individuals. Payments such as royalties and funds from property sales must be directed to these accounts. Matviyenko condemned the actions of those labeled as foreign agents, stating that they undermine the country despite having benefited from its education system. The council plans to continue enacting laws that restrict the activities of foreign agents in Russia.
Stricter Penalties for Armed Rebellion and Child Exploitation
The Federation Council has also intensified penalties for armed rebellion, with life imprisonment now a possible sentence for those found guilty of organizing or participating in such acts. The law outlines severe consequences for actions that threaten the constitutional order or territorial integrity of Russia, including lengthy prison terms for participants and organizers.
Additionally, new measures have been introduced to combat the involvement of minors in criminal activities. The updated laws impose harsher penalties for individuals who engage children in crimes, with potential prison sentences of up to ten years for serious offenses. This includes increased penalties for online exploitation of minors.
Other legislative changes include a 50% increase in fines for traffic violations, stricter penalties for selling vapes to minors, and the ratification of a space exploration agreement with Tajikistan. These initiatives reflect the Federation Council's commitment to enhancing public safety and national integrity.
