New Russian law restricts films seen as against traditional valuesCEFR A2
13 Mar 2026
Adapted from Daria Dergacheva, Global Voices • CC BY 3.0
Photo by Egor Myznik, Unsplash
On 1 March 2026 a law came into effect in Russia that bars distribution and screening of films seen as discrediting traditional Russian spiritual and moral values. The Ministry of Culture can refuse distribution licences for films it finds contrary to those values or that promote rejecting them.
Some media say the law applies to both foreign and domestic films. Officials will watch films that may be interpreted as promoting non-traditional relationships or as rejecting family values. World Pictures said the 2005 film "Nuremberg" will not be released because the ministry did not give a licence.
Difficult words
- distribution — the act of sending or giving out
- screening — the public showing of a film
- discredit — to harm the reputation of someonediscrediting
- spiritual — connected with religion or the spirit
- licence — official permission to do or use somethinglicences
- ministry — a government department led by a minister
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you think a government should refuse licences for some films? Why or why not?
- Have you ever seen a film that some people found offensive? How did you feel?
- How could filmmakers respond if a ministry refuses a licence for their film?
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