Vladimir Putin has signed a controversial new law that permits medical institutions to share information with the police about patients suffering from mental disorders who are considered a threat to others.
The legislation, which will come into force on March 1, 2025, has raised significant privacy and civil rights concerns.
Details of the Law
The law mandates amendments to several existing legal frameworks, including the "On Psychiatric Care and Guarantees of Citizens' Rights When Providing It" act.
Under these amendments, the Ministry of Internal Affairs will gain access to the medical records of Russians who have served criminal sentences, particularly those with a history of mental disorders.
Police will also have access to the medical records of individuals under court-ordered compulsory treatment.
The police will be able to obtain data on Russians under dispensary observation for chronic and severe mental disorders, including alcoholism and drug addiction. Security forces will be allowed to monitor these patients and exchange data about them with medical organizations.
The bill was developed by the Ministry of Health, which stated that while the number of Russians with mental disorders who pose a danger is minimal, they require increased attention.
The Ministry emphasized that police involvement is necessary if a patient fails to attend routine medical appointments, allowing authorities to locate and monitor these individuals more effectively.
The new law has sparked debate over the balance between public safety and individual privacy.
Critics argue that granting police access to sensitive medical information infringes on civil liberties and could lead to misuse or discrimination against individuals with mental health issues.
