Internet Censorship in the Russian Federation: Focused on The Roskomnadzor and The Safe Internet League

In the context of a transforming media landscape, the internet has emerged as a pivotal communication platform, extending beyond traditional media channels. This study explores the mechanisms of internet control exercised by the authoritarian regime in Russia under President Vladimir Putin. The analysis begins with the Terentiev case, a significant event that marked the commencement of rigorous internet censorship by the Russian government. It then delves into the principal activities of key entities such as Roskomnadzor, the Safe Internet League, and Cyberdruzhina, which collectively contribute to internet censorship. Globally, the rationale for internet regulation is gaining traction, often framed as the regulation of harmful content. However, such censorship poses substantial risks to the fundamental human right of freedom of expression, potentially overstepping the boundaries of universal moral standards. In Russia's authoritarian context, the government's prerogative, under the guise of national interest and security, has become the benchmark for internet censorship. This approach diminishes the role of Runet as a free public sphere and is anticipated to escalate. The study highlights the implications of such censorship practices on freedom of expression and the broader discourse on human rights in the digital age.