In Russia, calls grow for a state accredited internet filter system similar to a Chinese firewall
A member of the Federation Council’s constitutional committee argues that Russia needs a nationwide filter that can block access to a broad range of unwanted online resources. The proposal reflects concern over ongoing Western pressure and what some officials view as a hostile information environment. The idea is to establish a robust control mechanism capable of preventing access to sites and services deemed inappropriate under national law, including VPNs and other circumvention tools, should current regulations be ignored or challenged.
The discussion highlights the perception that global platforms and widely used information sources can sway public opinion. In particular, the example of Wikipedia is cited as an information instrument in the hands of Western actors, with accusations of biased or distorted representations of Russia’s history and politics. This concern underscores why some policymakers advocate stronger oversight and a more predictable regulatory framework for online content and platform behavior.
Advocates argue that voluntary self-regulation by social networks and websites has proven insufficient for ensuring compliance with national rules. They call for a more accountable approach that clearly defines responsibilities for international tech companies operating within the country. The central aim is to balance openness with safety and security, while providing mechanisms to enforce rules when platforms fail to meet expectations.
Separate from content rules, there is also a focus on the technical side of information infrastructure. Officials consider evaluating the country’s technology stack and critical digital assets to determine how to limit operations or slow traffic on platforms that do not align with national requirements. This part of the discussion centers on preserving national sovereignty over digital ecosystems without crippling legitimate online activity.
Earlier, a deputy from the State Duma discussed at a public forum the concept of a domestic alternative to a full encyclopedia with broad reach. The initiative envisions hosting a large-scale knowledge repository on servers located within the Russian Federation, reducing reliance on foreign-hosted information resources while improving accessibility and security for Russian users. The conversation signals a broader push toward sovereign digital infrastructure alongside content governance measures. [citation]