The Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia has declared political scientist Ekaterina Shulman wanted, as announced on March 25, 2025. The news follows Shulman's previous designation as a 'foreign agent' by the Russian authorities in 2022. Currently living abroad, the conditions surrounding this new development remain hazy, as officials have not specified the exact charges or legal basis for the search.
Shulman, a prominent voice in Russian political analysis, was officially designated a foreign agent on April 15, 2022. This classification stemmed from allegations regarding her receipt of funding, which were said to be linked to foreign sources. The Ministry of Justice cited her work with Ekho Moskvy, a well-known Russian media outlet, as the reason behind her designation. Shulman herself disclosed that payments from Ekho Moskvy were categorized by the authorities as indirect foreign funding. She described the predicament as convoluted, stating, "You will be surprised, but there exists in the legislation a concept called mediated foreign funding. That is, you receive money from a Russian source, and the Russian source gets money from some foreign source."
This scenario came into sharper focus after Shulman had dealt with multiple legal battles concerning her status. She was fined 50,000 rubles in both September and December 2023 for failing to label certain publications with the 'foreign agent' tag, as mandated by Russian law. In February 2025, the situation escalated when protocols were initiated against her for participation in activities of an organization deemed 'undesirable' by the Russian government—the Berlin-based Carnegie Center.
The announcement of her being declared wanted quickly made waves, drawing attention from various media outlets that highlighted her predicament. According to reports, the specific charges under which Shulman is being sought have not been disclosed. This lack of clarity adds to the uncertainty surrounding her status and potential repercussions if she returns to Russia.
Shulman's work has focused on political analysis and human rights, making her a respected figure in opposition circles. Her involvement with the Carnegie Center has made her a key figure in discussions about democracy and civil society in Russia, particularly at a time when such voices faced significant repression.
Although Shulman was living abroad reportedly for work-related reasons, she had recently stated that this was only a temporary departure. However, as of now, her status appears increasingly precarious with this recent declaration. Observers speculate that this move could be more than just a legal challenge; it may symbolize a broader crackdown against dissenting voices within Russia.
Even amidst uncertainty, Shulman has continued to speak publicly, pointing out the implications of her situation. Her case reflects the wider issues facing political analysts and activists in Russia, particularly under the present government's tightening grip on freedoms and expressions of dissent.
As the legal situation develops, many are left to wonder what the future holds for Shulman. The Ministry of Internal Affairs remains silent on her case, and while no official statements have been released, the implications resonate through both domestic and international circles. Observers invoke concerns regarding the growing risks for dissenters and the challenges faced in advocating for fundamental rights in Russia.
This evolving scenario adds complexity to the already precarious environment for political discourse in Russia, where many fear reprisals for challenging the government. As Shulman's case unfolds, it will undoubtedly remain a focal point in discussions about state repression and the future of independent thought in the country.
Shulman's status as a wanted person has implications well beyond her individual case. It highlights a trend where the legal system is being used as a tool for political repression against those labeled as dissenters. In this context, her case serves as a cautionary tale for other political analysts and dissenters who may find themselves similarly targeted.
