Russian Parliament approved a law on Tuesday (22) to fine users who access online content classified as “extremist.” Measure primarily targets opposition-linked websites or posts on LGBTQIA+ issues.
The proposal is seen as another step in the crackdown by tightening state control over the digital environment. The measure was approved by a vote of 306 to 67.
New law provides for fines of between R$220 and R$360 for anyone caught deliberately accessing material contested by the Kremlin online. The use of VPNs will be considered an aggravating circumstance.
Although the government claims the measure aims to combat fraud and digital crimes, critics point out that the definition of “extremist content” is arbitrary and serves to silence opponents.
Among the targets already classified as extremist are the Anti-Corruption Fund of opposition figure Alexei Navalny—who died in 2024—and the LGBTQIA+ movement. Meta platforms are also on the radar, and WhatsApp could be banned in the country.
“People don’t want this law,” declared Deputy Vladislav Davankov of the liberal “New People” party. But State Duma Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin defended the measure as a way to protect the country from Western platforms “in the hands of hostile nations.”
The bill now goes to the Russian Senate and, if approved, will be signed into law by President Vladimir Putin.
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