Party of “New People” has resubmitted a finalized bill on countering Stalking to the State Duma, including proposals to define terms such as “obsessive persecution” and “ban on approaching” in the legislation. The materials related to the bill are currently with RBC for review.
The bill suggests adding a new article to the Code of Administrative Offenses to address persecution and is set to be reviewed by the government commission. The explanatory note accompanying the bill provides detailed definitions of persecution, emphasizing the need for legal measures to combat this behavior and protect victims.
The document highlights the inadequacy of current laws in addressing the various forms of stalking and the psychological harm it inflicts on victims. As defined, persecution involves actions that cause emotional distress to the victim, continuing despite warnings to stop.
Some examples of such actions listed in the bill include intentional tracking, waiting for the victim in familiar places, repeated attempts at contact through phone calls, messages, gifts, and other means. While the Code of Criminal Procedure already includes provisions for banning approaches to victims, it is limited in scope.
The initial version of the bill was presented to the State Duma in October 2023, with a focus on the lack of direct provisions regarding banning approaches to stalking victims. After the government requested revisions citing the need to amend the Code of Administrative Offenses, the bill has been resubmitted with clearer definitions and a comprehensive approach to combating stalking.