Russian president approves amendments to law on presidential elections

Russian President Vladimir Putin signed amendments that limit photo and video filming at polling stations and also regulate the holding of presidential elections under martial law.

Laws restrict photography and video recording at polling stations. Now only accredited media representatives working in editorial offices under an employment contract will be able to conduct them. At polling stations in military units, journalists will need additional permission from the unit commander.

The Central Election Commission (CEC) is also given the right to make changes to the procedure for holding elections during martial law. Outside Russia, the voting time can be changed by decision of the head of the diplomatic mission or consular office of Russia in the event of a threat to the life and health of citizens. Voting in regions under martial law will be possible based on the results of consultations between the CEC and the Ministry of Defense, the FSB and the heads of these regions.