**Access to Roblox Blocked in Russia: An Overview**

Access to the popular gaming platform Roblox has been officially blocked in Russia, following accusations from the federal censorship and media oversight agency, Roskomnadzor. The agency alleged that Roblox was distributing content that “justifies terrorism” and spreads “LGBT propaganda”. According to reports, Roskomnadzor expressed concerns that Roblox contains materials detrimental to the “spiritual and moral development of children.”

In addition to these claims, Roskomnadzor highlighted reports of sexual harassment directed towards children in the platform, including the sharing of explicit images. The agency’s decision reflects ongoing tensions in Russia regarding online content and the treatment of minors.

**Roblox Corporation’s Response to the Ban**

Roblox Corporation responded to the ban through a spokesperson, asserting their respect for local laws while emphasizing that the platform serves as a positive venue for learning, creativity, and meaningful connections. The company stated, “We have a deep commitment to safety and we have a robust set of proactive and preventative safety measures designed to catch and prevent harmful content on our platform.”

This response underlines their commitment to ensuring a safe environment for all users, particularly given the scrutiny Roblox has faced regarding child safety.

**Concerns Over Child Safety and Legal Actions**

The platform has faced significant criticism in recent years regarding its safety measures for young users. Notably, the state of Louisiana has taken legal action against Roblox Corporation over concerns about child safety, describing the platform as “overrun with harmful content and child predators.”

In an effort to address these issues, Roblox has introduced several safety measures, including limiting interactions between minors and adults and rolling out a “facial age estimation technology” that relies on mandatory selfies for age verification.

**Cultural and Legislative Context in Russia**

Roskomnadzor’s accusations regarding “LGBT propaganda” align with the Russian government’s broader stance on LGBTQ+ issues. The agency has a history of targeting platforms and media that it views as conflicting with conservative values, often leading to increased censorship. This has included a string of restrictions following the enactment of policies aimed at curbing LGBTQ+ rights in the country.

The case of Roblox is not isolated; for instance, just last month, Valve removed the game Flick Solitaire from the Russian version of Steam due to similar accusations concerning the promotion of “non-traditional sexualities.”

**Conclusion**

The blocking of Roblox in Russia highlights ongoing tensions between digital platforms and government regulations over content perceived as harmful or inappropriate. As international concerns over child safety in online environments grow, companies like Roblox are adapting their policies while navigating complex legal and cultural landscapes. The situation serves as a critical reminder of the delicate balance between regulation, safety, and freedom of expression in the digital age.