The law does not specify exactly what actions on the part of international organisations “threaten Russia’s constitutional order”. Consequently, there is wide scope for the repression of civil society.

In the near future, this document will be presented to President Vladimir Putin for his signature.

According to the bill, any foreign or international NGO can be labelled "undesirable" if it "presents a threat to the foundations of Russia's constitutional order, its defence capability and security", reports Radio Svoboda (RFE/RL).

The document does not specify exactly what actions on the part of international organisations would come under the new law's definition. The decision to register an organisation as "undesirable" will be taken by state prosecutors with the approval of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

A fine of from 5 000 to 100 000 roubles will be imposed for breaking the law. A repeat offence will lead to a prison sentence of up to six years.

Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch had already spoken out against the adoption of the new law.