Russia declares CORRECTIV an “undesirable organization”
The Russian Prosecutor General's Office has designated CORRECTIV as an “undesirable foreign organization.” With this move, the Russian state is placing our journalistic work under blanket threat of punishment—while simultaneously demonstrating that our reporting is effective. Independent investigations are to be made impossible in Russia.
On October 10, 2025, the Russian Ministry of Justice declared CORRECTIV an “undesirable foreign organization.” This places CORRECTIV on a growing list of international media, research, and civil society organizations whose work is no longer tolerated in Russia.
With this designation, CORRECTIV is legally barred from conducting any activities within the Russian Federation. Russian citizens who interact with CORRECTIV—whether in Russia or abroad—can be prosecuted by Russian authorities. Any form of cooperation with CORRECTIV is criminalized. This includes taking part in discussions, sharing information, contributing to investigations, or organizing joint projects.
Even actions that are entirely routine from a journalistic standpoint may be punishable: forwarding an article, translating a text, commenting on or liking CORRECTIV content on social media. Repeated or “systematic” contact with CORRECTIV can result in heavy fines or prison sentences. The law governing “undesirable organizations” is deliberately vague—a classic authoritarian tactic intended to maximize fear. Ultimately, no one is meant to know what consequences they may face.
CORRECTIV publisher David Schraven says: “This classification is an attack on independent journalism and an attempt to intimidate critical reporting. We will not be stopped. Our job is to uncover facts—especially where those in power try to hide them. The fact that Russia is criminalizing us only shows how vital our work is.”
Investigations into Russian influence
CORRECTIV systematically investigates Russian disinformation campaigns, sanctions evasion, and Russian war crimes. We document how the Russian state influences the German far-right party AfD and what power structures Vladimir Putin is building in the West. Our reporting exposes Russian networks and methods that were previously hidden from the public.
Another central part of our work is the establishment of the Russian-language exile newsroom Radio Sakharov. It provides a platform for independent, critical reporting by journalists who have fled Russia. Aimed at audiences both inside and outside the country, Radio Sakharov enables professional journalism to continue even where free media are restricted.
Beyond journalistic reporting, CORRECTIV.Exile creates spaces for exchange and networking: at our monthly Exile Talks, exiled media professionals and the German public come together. Through discussion panels, lectures, and workshops, we address urgent issues—from press freedom and human rights to the role of exile journalism in democratic societies.
Tougher conditions, increased protection for sources
The designation complicates our investigations in Russia, but it does not prevent us from continuing our work. “We are reassessing the protection of potential sources and contacts in Russia. We will strengthen our security measures. But we will not be intimidated,” says David Schraven.
“For us at CORRECTIV.Exile, this decision is particularly painful. We know that partners, friends, and family members in Russia are now at risk. Our work will become more difficult. But that is precisely why we will not stop. As long as there are people who want to know the truth, we will continue reporting,” explains Viera Zuborova, director of CORRECTIV.Exile.
Our investigations continue—into crime, disinformation, the influence of powerful actors, and authoritarian networks. Carefully, independently, and guided by journalistic standards.