16 Jul 2017 | 07:42 AM UTC
Russia: Rally to oppose internet censorship planned in St Petersburg July 16
Rally against proposed internet censorship legislation to be held in St Petersburg Sunday, July 16
Event
A rally against proposed internet censorship legislation have been planned in St Petersburg on Sunday, July 16. The protest is expected to be held at 14:00 (local time) on Bolshaya Morskaya Street. Protests may also occur in other cities.
Context
The proposed internet legislation would see enhanced internet censorship. Russia has increasingly looked to censor internet material in past years, which is enforced via several laws, including the Russian Internet Restriction Bill. Russia’s lower chamber has been considering two new bills that will increase internet surveillance, one of which would heavily restrict the use of VPN services, and the other stipulate that users of messenger services are registered with phone numbers and details for personal identification.
Advice
Individuals present in Russia are advised to avoid all demonstrations and to anticipate transportation disruptions in the vicinity of public gatherings. It is advised to always carry proper identification papers and to cooperate with local authorities as identity checks.
