Sebastian Reyes '19, Russia
The Russian government's recent action may have significant consequences for Harvard individuals in Russia or who may be traveling to Russia.
The Russian Ministry of Justice recently added three Harvard units—Harvard Kennedy School, the Davis Center for Russian and Eurasian Studies, and the Ukrainian Research Institute at Harvard University (HURI)—to its list of “undesirable” foreign organizations, which now numbers over 300 institutions and other organizations. This action may have significant consequences for Harvard individuals in Russia or who may be traveling to Russia.
It's our understanding that individuals in Russia associated with “undesirable organizations” may face civil penalties or criminal prosecution for activities such as distributing content or participating in events or programs of such organizations. There's some risk that Russian authorities may treat other individuals affiliated with Harvard as though they're subject to these restrictions, even if their affiliation isn't with one of the listed units. We urge individuals in or traveling to Russia to take appropriate precautions in regard to participation in Harvard programs and communication with Harvard employees and students.
If you have questions, please contact the relevant office:
- International students and scholars with Harvard visa sponsorship: Harvard International Office (HIO)
- Harvard-related international travel and engagement: Global Support Services (GSS)
If you're planning travel to Russia, you should carefully assess the risks and your individual situation. International students and scholars with Harvard sponsorship should contact their HIO advisor prior to departure. If you're planning Harvard-related travel, you must register your trip. The GSS travel risk rating for Russia is high risk. This means Harvard sponsored travel by undergraduate students and post-baccalaureate fellows is prohibited. Graduate and professional students must complete additional pre-departure requirements. All other travelers are strongly advised to develop a comprehensive safe travel plan that addresses the significant risks that may impact their experience and to schedule a pre-departure consultation with GSS.
