Sometimes it happens that a state bans a certain internet service on its territory. Or requests that it be restricted for minors. This is typical of social networks like Facebook or TikTok, where some states require an age limit of up to 16 years, for example. But these are still more of an exception. Then there are, of course, states that completely regulate and dictate to their citizens what they can and cannot watch and do on the internet. One of these is Russia.
Just Russia is an interesting example of a power that gladly boasts about its advancement, military strength, and wealth – but on the other hand, it does not want to let its citizens go too far into the corners of the Internet, lest they accidentally discover that people are perhaps better off elsewhere. In addition, after the war in Ukraine began, Russia was hit by various sanctions and some social networks have also stopped working in its territory because of them. For example, after the shutdown Instagram Young Russians (and especially Russian women) were struggling because it was their source of income and literally their second life.
However, at the beginning of December, the Russian Federation decided to take a very unexpected step. Forbidden Roblox. So one of the most popular gaming platforms, which works both on a computer for online gaming and as an application for Android/iOSThe reason for the ban, according to the Russian communications watchdog Roskomnadzor, is that the platform "full of inappropriate content that can negatively affect the spiritual and moral development of children."
We could dismiss this news as being completely unimportant, as it doesn't affect anyone but the Russians. But there's an interesting twist. The ban came on December 3rd, and Roblox's biggest fans soon after they took to the streets. Although they were only a handful of the bravest, according to Reuters, there were only 25 of them, they still showed immense courage. For protests and public demonstrations in Russia there are severe penalties. And this was a demonstration because people were holding posters with slogans like "Hands off Roblox", "Roblox is a victim of the digital iron curtain" or "Banning and blocking - that's all you're capable of"And that is a clear political protest.
It is clear that after this action the Russian authorities will not lift their order and Roblox will remain unavailable in Russia indefinitely. But it is still nice to see that people are still able to unite and are not afraid to take to the streets and voice their opinions. Even though they know what they are risking.
