Russia to implement punishments for disrespect of freedom of faith in July

Amendments on disrespect of freedom of faith to the Criminal Code of Russia will come into force in July.

Disrespect of freedom of faith may be punished with 3 years of prison or a fine of up to 500,000 rubles and community service.

Hindering religious rituals will be punished with up to 300,000 rubles of fines or 3 months of arrest. Using force would extend imprisonment to 1 year.

Fines for violating the freedom of conscience and religion will be punished with up to 100,000 rubles. Vandalism of religious literature or religion will be punished with a fine of up to 200,000 rubles.