An appeal is being considered by Russian authorities to protect children from perceived Ukraine-related influence within digital games. This position was presented by a senior legislator during a session where parliamentary committees reviewed reports about crimes against minors tied to events in Kiev. The briefing was reported by TASS.
The deputy speaker stated that she had learned of efforts by Ukrainian authorities to influence young players through computer games. She also mentioned attempts to foster a pro-Ukrainian youth gaming environment inside Russia, arguing that such efforts could shape attitudes and values among younger audiences.
According to the deputy speaker, game content should be aligned with national interests and the welfare of citizens. She urged policymakers to establish content guidelines and prioritize protections that reflect these interests, while shielding younger viewers from messaging they deem inappropriate.
Kuznetsova noted that a sizable portion of funding from many game development studios appears directed toward supporting the Armed Forces of Ukraine. She warned that children may not realize that money spent on in-game purchases or donations could support military activities abroad. She emphasized concerns about the lack of transparency in funding allocation and the potential impact on young players.
The discussion provided historical context by referencing the Ukrainian Defense Ministry’s reports on military aid levels as of February 2022. This backdrop highlighted the broader geopolitical climate informing these concerns. The dialogue stressed the need for vigilance among regulators, parents, and industry stakeholders to keep digital spaces safe for minors and to ensure that funding streams are transparent to the public. The conversation reflected ongoing concerns about how conflicts abroad may appear in children’s entertainment and the responsibility of regulators and content creators to respond with clarity and accountability. (TASS)