Russia’s domestic violence support organization, Nasiliu.net (“No to Violence”), announced on Wednesday that it is shutting down due to escalating government pressure and financial collapse following its “foreign agent” designation.
A Decade of Support Ends Abruptly
Founded in 2015 and registered in 2018, Nasiliu.net had become the country’s most prominent group assisting survivors of domestic violence. The organization provided direct help to more than 10,000 people, offering legal aid, therapy, emergency shelter, and online counseling.
Support for Thousands During Wartime
At the onset of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022–2023, Nasiliu.net handled nearly 8,000 individual cases. Its services became a lifeline for victims during a period of rising social and economic instability.
Farewell Message from the Founder
Founder and director Anna Rivina announced the closure in an emotional letter. “This November, Nasiliu.net would have turned 10. We wanted to mark the anniversary with you,” she wrote. “But unfortunately, that’s no longer possible. Nasiliu.net is closing.”
A Pioneering Force for Change
Throughout its existence, the group ran public-awareness campaigns that brought domestic violence into mainstream discussion. It also created Russia’s first mobile app for victims and launched an online platform offering legal guidance and psychological support.
Crackdown Under ‘Foreign Agent’ Law
The Justice Ministry labeled Nasiliu.net a “foreign agent” in December 2020 and later applied the same label to Rivina in 2023. Authorities accused her of spreading “false information” about the Russian military. Despite never receiving foreign grants, the NGO faced growing restrictions and loss of partners.
Funding Collapse Ends Operations
After being barred from hosting events and educational programs, the organization saw donors withdraw amid government scrutiny. “More and more people were afraid to be associated with us,” Rivina said. The final blow came in September 2025 when Nasiliu.net lost access to all domestic donations—its primary funding source.
Final Cases Accepted Until December 30
The group announced it will continue handling existing cases until December 30 before formally ceasing operations. “Nasiliu.net no longer exists, but the violence does,” Rivina wrote, urging public support for independent psychologists and lawyers who continue helping victims.
Domestic Violence Still Largely Unchecked
Russia decriminalized first-time domestic violence offenses causing “minor harm” in 2017, a move activists say has fueled abuse and impunity. Attempts to pass protective legislation have repeatedly failed, and experts warn that cases may rise as soldiers return from the front lines in Ukraine.
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