MOSCOW, Russia — The Russian Revenue Service has officially designated the Clooney Foundation for Justice, an American nonprofit, as “undesirable.” This classification, which has been used against foreign organizations since 2015, accuses the foundation of engaging in activities that allegedly aim to discredit Russia.
Founded by famed actor George Clooney and his wife, human rights lawyer Amal Clooney, the foundation has been active in advocating for justice globally. Russian authorities, however, say the foundation’s operations mirror Hollywood-style tactics to undermine Moscow’s image.
According to a statement released via the Telegram messaging platform by the General Tax Office, the foundation allegedly supports individuals who have left Russia and criticizes the country’s approach to foreign agents and non-governmental organizations under the guise of humanitarian efforts. Additionally, the foundation is accused of pushing for legal action against high-ranking officials in Moscow.
The “undesirable” status applies not only to non-profit organizations, but also to various media, political, cultural and religious groups that the Russian government deems to threaten national security.
The Clooney Foundation for Justice has not yet responded to requests for comment regarding this designation.