New registration system aims to expose covert interference and bolster national security safeguards.
The United Kingdom has launched the Foreign Influence Registration Scheme (FIRS), a legal mechanism designed to monitor and regulate foreign influence operations. The scheme introduces two tiers, the second of which targets Iranian regime and Russian state actors due to the “serious threat” they pose to British democratic institutions. Designated groups include Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, Ministry of Intelligence and Security, and armed forces.
Security Minister Dan Jarvis emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability to prevent covert operations from undermining British democracy. While legitimate engagement is permitted, the law requires foreign-linked political activity to be declared, with exemptions for recognized media, legal professionals, diplomats, and UK government partners.
