On March 20, 2025, Russia declared the German Council on Foreign Relations (DGAP) to be an “undesirable organization.” DGAP regrets this decision as it complicates international dialogue and contributes to Russia’s further self-isolation. It makes DGAP part of a growing list of – until now – 207 organizations that are “undesirable” in Russia, including 27 German institutions working in the areas of politics, academia, and civil society.
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Since its founding 70 years ago, DGAP has provided a forum for strategic debate through its work as both a think tank and an independent association comprised of more than 2,800 members from fields related to politics, business, academia, and civil society. DGAP is one of the leading organizations in Germany that offers independent and objective expertise on Russian and Eastern Europe. Through this expertise and its insightful analysis of transatlantic issues, defense and security policy, and topics related to climate change and migration, DGAP makes an impact well outside of Europe.
From the outset, DGAP has contributed comprehensive and accurate information about Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine and its consequences to the German government, German society, and beyond. The classification of DGAP as an undesirable organization by Russian authorities is an attempt to discredit this work. DGAP will continue to focus on all topics related to Russia, its war against Ukraine, and current geopolitical challenges for Germany and Europe. At the same time, DGAP is assessing the possible implications of this decision for the institution and its employees and partners.
The classification of DGAP as an “undesirable organization” is apparently part of Russia’s overall strategy to restrict academic freedom and suppress independent research. Such a classification is intended to isolate and discredit independent and critical voices and to create targeted uncertainty.