National Press Club Responds to Russia's Labeling of CPJ as Undesirable Organization

National Press Club Condemns Russia's Designation of CPJ as Undesirable Organization

On May 27, 2026, Mark Schoeff Jr., President of the National Press Club, publicly expressed disapproval regarding the Russian government's recent decision to classify the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) as an 'undesirable' organization. This designation poses a serious threat to any individuals within Russia who might cooperate with, fund, or share content produced by CPJ, risking substantial fines and prison sentences of up to six years.

In his statement, Schoeff Jr. reaffirmed the National Press Club's unwavering support for the CPJ, emphasizing its crucial function in documenting the alarming decline of press freedoms in Russia since President Vladimir Putin's administration came to power. He urged the Russian government to retract the 'undesirable' label applied to CPJ and similar organizations that work to defend independent journalism.

The 'undesirable' designation is not a novel tactic for the Russian authorities. This move is part of a broader strategy to suppress independent media and human rights organizations, a trend that has become increasingly pronounced since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Numerous organizations, including Reporters Without Borders and the International Women's Media Foundation, alongside exiled Russian media entities, have likewise been designated as undesirable for merely attempting to maintain a semblance of free expression in an increasingly repressive environment.

The implications of such actions are profound. Schoeff Jr. firmly stated, "Journalism is not a crime, and the work of CPJ in defending the rights of independent journalists is far from illegal." He contended that as channels for critiquing the Kremlin's propaganda continue to dwindle, the efforts and commitment of the CPJ to support Russian journalists who face intimidation, incarceration, or exile become more essential than ever.

Established in 1908, the National Press Club serves as a premier professional organization for journalists and stands as a prominent advocate for press freedom in the United States and across the globe. As part of its mission, the organization intends to combat the rising tide of suppression faced by journalists, stressing that protecting the rights of these individuals is fundamental to maintaining democracy and accountability.

Conclusion

The National Press Club's vigorous stance against Russia's designation of the CPJ not only highlights the ongoing struggle faced by journalists in oppressive regimes but also serves as a rallying cry for supporters of press freedom worldwide. The international community must heed these calls and stand in solidarity with organizations that protect the essential work of journalism in the face of increasing dangers.

For more information, queries can be directed to Beth Francesco, Executive Director of the National Press Club Journalism Institute, at [email protected]