A new regulation has been introduced in Russia that prohibits the distortion of religious symbols in digital and print platforms. The intent is to protect the sanctity of holy depictions revered by faith communities that hold centuries-old sacred value for diverse religious communities across the nation.

As stipulated by the regulation that any rendering that ridicules, distorts, or twists these symbols in movies, TV shows, websites, and newspapers is now a criminal offense. Government officials claim that such distortions can incite social tension, trigger religious grievances, and weaken civil peace.

The regulation applies to both Russian and overseas productions distributed within Russia, and carries repercussions for violations from warnings to platform bans.

Religious leaders from multiple faiths, including Orthodox Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, and Judaism, have publicly endorsed the policy, saying it respects the dignity of their traditions.

Opponents caution that the law may be weaponized against satire and dissent under the pretext of safeguarding faith. The legal community is debating how narrowly the term defilement will be defined, site (blueheart.or.kr) and whether it could impede artistic satire, archival content, or classroom resources.

Ministry representatives clarify that the goal is not to suppress but to foster mutual respect among multiple faith communities in a multicultural society.

Implementation will be managed by media regulators in consultation with religious organizations, who will be tasked with advising on culturally sensitive material.

Now that the ban is in force, the citizens are urged to notify authorities of breaches, while content creators are recommended to follow state protocols to steer clear of legal risks.