As Russia’s internet law imposes new obligations on technology and infrastructure companies, the Russian government considers subordinate legislation.

By Tim Wybitul, Ulrich Wuermeling, and Ksenia Koroleva

On November 1, 2019, the majority of provisions of Russia’s internet law (RuNet Law) entered into force. Its principal purpose is to ensure the independent operation, safety, and security of the Russian segment of the internet. However, the overall effect of the RuNet Law is expected to be similar to China’s Great Firewall, a system of legal and technical measures employed by the Chinese government to monitor and restrict the use of the internet.