Censorship is being tightened in Russia; fan banners and classic literature are now subject to restrictions
Russia continues to expand censorship restrictions, which have now extended to new areas. Not only fans in stadiums but also works of classical literature have come under scrutiny. In particular, books by Pushkin and Chekhov have been labeled “18+,” and fan banners may be banned under the pretext of protecting “traditional values.”
This was reported with reference to a post by the Foreign Intelligence Service of Ukraine.
Updated rules of conduct at official sporting events prohibit banners and flags that may contradict “traditional values” or offend anyone. The wording is deliberately vague—this gives the authorities broad scope for arbitrary interpretation.
The list of prohibited insults has also been expanded: now, statements regarding “membership in a social group” fall under the restrictions. Even ordinary fan paraphernalia could become subject to censorship.
Pushkin and Chekhov—Rated 18+
Following changes to legislation regarding references to drugs in literary works, publishers are widely labeling books with an “18+” rating or additional warnings. Classic literature has fallen under these restrictions—specifically the works of Pushkin and Chekhov, some of which are part of the school curriculum.
There is no official list of banned books in Russia. Instead, publishers themselves engage in internal censorship—driven by economic considerations and fear of fines.
Z-channels are losing their audience due to blocking.
Russian censors have banned a film about escaping from North Korea.
