The expert warned about the risk of criminal liability for New Year's gifts

On the eve of the New Year, the risk of violating anti-corruption legislation increases when exchanging gifts between colleagues and partners. Anton Pivovarov, a lawyer at the Moscow SED LEX Bar Association, explained on December 15. "Газете.Ru ".

"There is a strict regime for civil servants and employees of budget organizations. According to the law No. 273-FZ "On Combating Corruption", they are not entitled to accept gifts related to the performance of official duties. The exceptions are symbolic gifts worth up to 3,000 rubles, as well as protocol souvenirs, gifts at official events and presented on behalf of the organization," the expert said.

He noted that even an inexpensive gift can be considered a bribe if there is a connection between its transfer and the actions of an official.

"The legal logic is simple: what matters is not even how much the gift costs, but why it was given and whether there is any relationship between the giver and the recipient," he added.

There are no legal restrictions on the cost of gifts in the commercial sector, but companies can set internal rules.

"If in doubt, it is better to limit yourself to an official congratulatory letter — if desired, you can publish it on the company's website," Pivovarov stressed.

For officials, violation of the rules may result in inspection, dismissal, administrative or criminal liability, for the donor — a fine or imprisonment.

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