Russia bans distribution permits for films that discredit ‘traditional values’

The Russian State Duma has approved a law that broadens the grounds for denying film distribution licenses.

Under the new amendments, films containing material that discredits “traditional Russian spiritual and moral values” or promotes rejecting them will be barred from obtaining distribution permits.

The legislation also gives the Culture Ministry the authority to amend already issued licenses to add restrictions on a film’s circulation among children.

If a film’s distribution license is revoked, online streaming platforms will be required to stop showing it within 24 hours.

Additionally, the law states that social media platforms must monitor content to identify materials that discredit “traditional values.”

The new law will take effect on March 1, 2026.