In early 2023, Russian lawmakers signaled a renewed focus on how the internet is accessed by minors, signaling a push to tighten rules governing youth online activity. A senior legislator explained that the State Duma intends to address the real-world consequences of harmful online content found on social networks, describing it as a driver of inappropriate behavior and, in some cases, self-harm among young people. The goal is not simply to regulate digital space but to shield younger audiences from content that could distort values or encourage dangerous actions.
Officials outlined a plan to begin the spring session with a comprehensive examination of online disruption and child safety. The idea is to pair this broad review with concrete legal proposals designed to strengthen protection for minors while balancing concerns about freedom of information and parental responsibility. From the outset of the year, the focus will be on creating frameworks that help parents, educators, and communities identify and respond to online threats more effectively, and that provide clear pathways for accountability for platforms and content creators alike.
The discussions extend beyond the mechanics of platforms. They will explore how harmful communities form, how they recruit young participants, and which channels they use to spread influence. By mapping these dynamics, lawmakers hope to craft targeted measures that disrupt recruitment efforts, reduce exposure to damaging materials, and promote healthier online environments. The intention is to build a policy backbone that supports constructive digital engagement while curbing activities that undermine the well-being of young people.
Meanwhile, officials cited ongoing monitoring of online activity since the onset of the current military operation, noting that authorities have identified and blocked a large number of false calls for demonstrations and other forms of mobilization. The figures indicate a persistent struggle against misinformation and manipulative messaging, underscoring the need for robust verification, rapid response, and coordinated action across agencies. The aim is to ensure that the online landscape does not become a tool for destabilizing information flows or inciting unlawful actions, especially those that could affect families and communities across the country. (Source: State Duma communications desk)