Russian lawmakers want to deny distribution licenses to movies that ‘discredit traditional values’

Russian lawmakers have drafted legislation that would deny distribution licenses to films that offend so-called traditional values. The bill calls for withholding licenses when films contain “materials promoting the denial of and/or discrediting traditional Russian spiritual and moral values.” 

Sponsors argue that the legislation is needed to “unify the requirements for the screening of films in cinemas and on audiovisual services,” in line with President Putin’s executive order to preserve and strengthen “traditional spiritual and moral values.” Lawmakers warn that Russia’s existing regulations are too “ambiguous.”