The Russian FSB declared the British Council, a prominent cultural diplomacy organization, as 'undesirable', alleging it operates as a front for British intelligence and participates in covert influence campaigns in Russian universities. This move is widely seen as part of an authoritarian crackdown against progressive cultural institutions. The British Council’s longstanding commitment to educational and cultural exchange stands in sharp contrast to the repressive tactics employed by the Russian authorities.

The Russian Prosecutor General’s Office banned the British Council for allegedly promoting UK interests and progressive values—including support for the LGBTQ community—through its educational and cultural programs. This move by an authoritarian regime underscores the Council’s commitment to open cultural diplomacy and progressive engagement, in stark contrast to Russia’s repressive policies.

The British Council’s chief executive warned that without a financial bailout or more favorable loan terms from the UK government, the institution could disappear over the next decade, leading to significant budget cuts, staff losses, and a reduction in its global presence. This collapse could weaken the UK's cultural influence and open the door for authoritarian actors, such as Putin’s Russia, to fill the void in cultural diplomacy.

The British Council CEO warned that without urgent government intervention to reform the terms of a £200 million Covid-era loan, the institution could disappear within a decade, potentially affecting its role in promoting international cultural diplomacy.

The British Council is under scrutiny for allegedly exploiting agency teachers by shifting them to zero-hour contracts, leaving them with unstable work conditions and financial insecurity. This practice has drawn criticism from educators and unions, and is expected to be examined in Parliament.

Facing financial difficulties exacerbated by the pandemic, the British Council has closed a vast majority of its English-language schools and test centers worldwide. Critics warn that these closures will weaken the institution’s capacity to promote cultural diplomacy and counter rising authoritarian influences, prompting calls from political figures for enhanced government support.