Russia's Counterterrorism Law Defines Violence and Illegal Armed Groups

Russia has long been engaged in efforts to counter terrorism within its borders. The country relies on Federal Law No. 35-FZ of March 6, 2006, as the primary legal framework for these actions. This law defines terrorism and sets out measures to combat it. Under the Counterterrorism Law, terrorism is described as the ideology of violence. It involves influencing decisions through intimidation and unlawful acts. The law also specifies what constitutes terrorist activity, including organising, planning, or executing attacks, as well as inciting such acts.

Forming or joining illegal armed groups is also classified as terrorist activity. These groups are defined as armed units not recognised by federal law, created to commit terrorist acts or violently change Russia’s constitutional order. Other prohibited actions include recruiting, arming, training, or deploying terrorists, as well as providing support for planning or executing attacks.

The law further addresses the promotion of terrorist ideologies. It highlights that terrorism in Russia is often funded by foreign sources and involves spreading ideologies of hatred. The legal framework aims to address a wide range of terrorist activities. It targets both direct actions and the underlying ideologies that drive them. The law provides authorities with tools to confront these threats systematically.