Unlocking the National Security Act 2023: What You Need to Know About the New Russia Regulations

The UK government has introduced a new set of regulations, part of the National Security Act 2023, to further bolster the country's defenses against foreign interference. Here's a breakdown of these significant changes and what they mean for individuals and organizations operating in the UK.

What Are These New Regulations?

These regulations are part of the Foreign Influence Registration Scheme (FIRS) and specifically target Russian influence. Under this scheme, certain Russian entities are placed on an "enhanced tier," requiring any person or organization involved with them in the UK to register their activities with the Secretary of State. The entities include the Russian government, its Federal Assembly, judiciary, and major political parties such as the United Russia Party.

Why Target Russia?

Russia is currently viewed as the most significant threat to UK security. The country's actions, including the 2018 Salisbury chemical attack and cyber intrusions like the SolarWinds hack, have underscored its intent to destabilize Western democracies. By enforcing these regulations, the UK aims to disrupt covert activities and increase transparency about Russian influence within the country.

Who Needs to Register?

Any individual or organization engaged in activities directed by the specified Russian entities must register unless exempt. This requirement applies to all types of activities, not just political influence, expanding oversight to areas like research and commerce.

Impact and Compliance

Businesses, charities, and voluntary bodies involved with these Russian entities must comply by registering their activities. While this could impose some administrative burden—estimated at around 30 minutes and costing roughly £10 per registration—the government argues that the benefits of increased national security outweigh these costs.

Monitoring and Future Review

The regulations include a provision for a review within five years to assess their effectiveness and necessity, ensuring that the UK can adapt its approach based on the evolving threat landscape.

This move represents a significant step in the UK’s effort to safeguard its democracy from foreign interference. The regulations not only aim to deter hostile acts but also reinforce the integrity of the UK's political and social institutions. For those affected, understanding and complying with these new rules will be crucial in navigating the UK's security landscape.