In several regions of Russia, new contract language for artists has appeared, limiting public comments on political or military matters during promotional activities. Reports from TASS, citing event tenders, indicate that organizers are adding clauses to ensure performers do not engage in political discourse in connection with their appearances. This trend suggests that contractual provisions are increasingly aimed at preventing commentary that could be interpreted as support or critique of state actions while a performance is being promoted or delivered.
One concrete example involves the contract with a singer planned to perform in Pskov in July. The text states that from the signing date of the agreement through the concert, the artist, the accompanying band, their staff, and representatives of the client must refrain from political statements or actions during the event. It further specifies that remarks or conduct discrediting the use of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation are not permitted. The published contract text on the public procurement portal documents these obligations as binding conditions tied to the public performance and all related activities surrounding the show.
In addition to political neutrality, the contract requires the artist to avoid displaying Nazi symbols or insignia associated with extremist organizations in public contexts. This element of the agreement was previously reported by Rise, a media outlet that has tracked similar restrictions attached to performances and appearances. The combination of political quietance and symbol prohibition appears to form a common framework for event organizers seeking to align artistic activities with regulatory and public messaging goals.
There are broader implications noted by observers, including officials in St. Petersburg who have posted their own procurement requirements on the public portal for a Day of the Border Guard event. The stipulation there also specifies that invited artists must not be foreign agents, adding another layer of compliance considerations for performers and their teams. Taken together, these provisions illustrate an evolving approach to artist contracts in Russia, where the intersection of entertainment, public policy messaging, and regulatory oversight shapes how events are organized and who participates in them.