“1984” in Russian version: Putin’s policy on online search history fines
In a recent move towards increased censorship, Russia has passed legislation that sanctions individuals who access content labeled as “extremist” by the State. The law, approved by the Upper House, imposes fines on users who search for prohibited materials on the internet. While the Kremlin claims the measure targets extremist propaganda and hate speech, critics warn of its implications. Merely searching for banned content, previously punishable only if shared publicly, is now considered an offense.
### Silent protest and Orwell’s echo
The approval of this law sparked a small protest outside Parliament in Russia, where liberal politician joined in with a sign reading “Orwell wrote a dystopia, not a manual.” Critics view this law as institutionalizing “thought crime,” with concerns that it restricts access to alternative sources of information. Individuals accessing materials deemed extremist, even without sharing or promoting them, can face fines up to 55 euros.
### What is really “extremist” in present-day Russia?
The list of extremist content managed by the Ministry of Justice includes over 5,000 elements, ranging from pamphlets and songs to books critical of the government. While officially aimed at materials promoting hatred or violence, the list has been used to target dissidents and critical voices. Even those aligned with the government have expressed unease, highlighting the law’s potential impact on investigative journalism and free expression.
### A new instrument of political persecution
Human rights defenders are concerned about the law’s legal ambiguity, fearing arbitrary enforcement and reduced digital privacy. Border controls now entail mobile phone checks, allowing authorities to monitor browsing histories and VPN usage. With the legislation expanding avenues for punishing dissent, the number of political prisoners in Russia could rise. This law, along with previous measures against criticism of the armed forces, aims to tighten control over information and silence dissenting voices.
