Government’s list of actions regarding Russia’s participation in international organisations welcomed

In considering the UK’s membership of the new International Organization for Marine Aids to Navigation, the committee raised the issue of Russia’s potential accession to the establishing Convention, and asked the Government to set out its view on Russia’s continuing participation in a range of international organisations. In a comprehensive response to the committee, the Government listed the actions taken across 28 organisations to put pressure on Russia to end its war. These included seeking to suspend or exclude Russia from 5 international bodies, condemnatory action by a further 11, plus referring Russia to accountability mechanisms in others.

The Government’s letter of 26 April states that it aims to “put pressure on Russia to end its war by condemning its aggression, isolating it internationally and holding it to account.” This includes seeking to suspend, or exclude, Russia from participating in a given organisation where judged appropriate. In deciding what action to take, the Government will take into account a range of factors, including the legality of the action, steps taken by allies and policy implications, including the need for dialogue with Russia on certain issues.

Baroness Hayter, Chair of the House of Lords International Agreements Committee said:

“I very much welcome the Government response to our committee—and particularly the level of detail regarding Russia’s participation in international organisations, including the provision of examples. These actions will help send a strong message to the Russian government and beyond that the aggression in Ukraine is unacceptable to the wider international community.”

The Government’s full response is available to read on the committee’s website.