11 November 2025
by Sergei Babinets
Source: Facebook
THIS MATERIAL (INFORMATION) HAS BEEN PRODUCED, DISTRIBUTED, AND/OR SENT BY SERGEI SERGEEVICH BABINETS, LEADER OF THE “TEAM AGAINST TORTURE,” WHICH IS INCLUDED IN THE REGISTER OF FOREIGN AGENTS | 18+ [This is an obligatory notice in Russia for publications by individuals designated as ‘foreign agents’. It is included here exclusively as to illustrate the repressive nature of Russian legislation – ed.]
We can debate and argue all we want, but the fact is that living and working in Russia has become more dangerous, and the foreign agent status drastically limits one’s freedom.
Let’s skip the reports that have to be submitted regularly, and the mandatory public humiliation of the foreign-agent disclaimer. Everyone knows about those.
What else is interesting about the daily life of a ‘foreign agent’ in Russia?
Being a ‘foreign agent’ in Russia means:
- – checking your phone monthly for Pegasus and malicious software;
- – requesting a certificate of no criminal record on Gosuslugi every month. This lets you check that you have no criminal record, and it tells you about ongoing criminal cases, if relevant;
- – getting used to writing to family members instead of calling;
- – giving up reels and shorts. The fifteen second disclaimer limits you in the world of short videos;
- – reading and hearing every day about officials calling you “an enemy and a traitor,” with no way to respond to them;
- – waking up at 5:30 AM so you have time to get ready before the “6 AM search.” Looking sleepy in your underwear in the police footage isn’t a great look;
- – checking your mail and Gosuslugi every day to make sure you didn’t get any new fines or summons;
- – developing a new habit of self-censorship. In conversations, online, and even with family and friends;
- – thinking of your phone as a potential enemy, no longer as a friend. Digital hygiene is much more important than working out or brushing your teeth every morning.
- – worrying not just about yourself, but about all of your loved ones. You’re just a ticking time bomb, after all, who could take down everyone around you;
- – struggling to finding work, since not many people are willing to hire a foreign agent;
- – banks monitoring your transactions especially closely and suspiciously;
- – being somewhat of an awkward friend, since not everyone wants to hang out with you or invite you to their wedding.
And the list goes on.
Translated by Nina dePalma
