Russia to ban religious organizations from operating in apartment buildings

Photo of a high-rise building in Moscow. Source: pikabu

On July 16, 2025, a group of deputies from the Communist Party of the Russian Federation (CPRF), led by Gennady Ziuganov, submitted a bill to the State Duma that would ban religious organizations from operating in residential and non-residential premises located within apartment buildings. The proposal was reported by Parlamentskaya Gazeta.

The authors of the initiative propose amendments to the Law "On Freedom of Conscience and Religious Associations" and the Housing Code of the Russian Federation. Specifically, the bill seeks to completely prohibit the registration of religious organizations in multi-story residential buildings.

In addition, when registering a local religious organization with the Federal Service for State Registration (Rosreestr), founders will be required to specify the type of property and submit supporting documents proving legal use – either a notarized copy of a lease agreement or a certificate of ownership. Only non-residential premises located in standalone buildings will be allowed. Both residential and non-residential spaces within apartment buildings will be prohibited for religious use.

The explanatory note states that the initiative aims to prevent conflicts and reduce tensions among residents of different faiths. According to its authors, the law will help ensure order, protect citizens' rights, and "create an atmosphere of respect and mutual understanding" within residential complexes.

The deputies also cite complaints from residents of one building where a religious group allegedly disrupted the peace, cooked food, held worship services, and hosted large gatherings, including individuals from Central Asian and Arab countries. The document warns that such activity could pose a threat to national security and may be linked to extremism.

If passed, the law would require all currently operating religious communities located in apartment buildings to relocate to other premises that comply with the new regulations within 180 days.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that in Chechnia, a teacher at a private Islamic school had been beating children with sticks.

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