press freedom Archives

AppWizard

March 17, 2026

Where censored words find a safe haven: Inside Minecraft

The Uncensored Library is a digital space within Minecraft that promotes press freedom and houses over 300 pieces of censored work from around the world. The newly opened U.S. wing features a central Statue of Liberty, surrounded by lecterns displaying contentious texts, including a controversial Stephen Colbert interview and a report on sea-level rise that faced censorship. The library, launched in 2020, allows users from repressive regimes to access vital information without fear of reprisal, and even players in countries with restrictions can connect using virtual private networks. The library's creators, including Tobias Natterer and Reporters Without Borders, designed it as a Grecian temple, symbolizing free expression. The Press Freedom Index indicates a decline in the U.S. ranking due to covert tactics against media freedom. The library serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance in safeguarding press freedoms.

AppWizard

March 13, 2026

World Day Against Cyber Censorship: RSF unveils new US room in its Minecraft Uncensored Library

The Uncensored Library has added a new room dedicated to the United States and updated content in sections for Egypt, Belarus, Russia, and Iran. The USA room includes analyses of press freedom and a political cartoon by Ann Telnaes that was rejected by the Washington Post. The library allows access to journalism from countries with censorship, using the Minecraft platform for broader reach. New articles include Elahe Mohammadi's piece on Evin Prison in Iran, two articles from MadaMasr in Egypt, over 20 articles from exiled Russian media, and six articles by exiled journalists in Belarus. The library has been visited by over one million users since its launch in 2020.

AppWizard

February 11, 2026

Moscow restricts Telegram as it pushes rival state-backed messaging app

On February 10, Russia's internet regulatory body, Roskomnadzor, announced the throttling of the messaging platform Telegram due to alleged legal violations. This action is part of a broader strategy to encourage the use of a state-sanctioned alternative, Max. Telegram serves as a crucial communication tool in Russia, widely used by public figures, including government officials. Users reported slow connectivity on Telegram before the announcement, and Roskomnadzor stated it would implement "phased restrictions" on the platform. Some pro-war bloggers expressed dissatisfaction with the decision, emphasizing its potential impact on communication and information operations. Telegram's founder, Pavel Durov, criticized the government's actions, arguing they are an attempt to force citizens to use a state-controlled application. Historically, Russia has tried to ban Telegram unsuccessfully, and Durov has faced legal challenges in France. Critics view the restrictions as an effort to tighten control over internet usage in Russia, particularly amid ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Media watchdogs have condemned these actions as a strategy to limit information circulation.

AppWizard

August 16, 2025

Russia Blocks Calls on Popular Messaging Apps

Russia’s telecommunications authority, Roskomnadzor, has imposed restrictions on voice and video calls via WhatsApp and Telegram, citing the need to protect the population from fraud related to foreign messenger services. Citizens are encouraged to transition to Max, a new Russian messaging application that allows state intelligence services easier access to user data. Journalist Viktor Shenderovich commented that these actions reflect a shift towards a more oppressive regime, noting growing frustrations among the populace due to ongoing conflicts and communication restrictions. Reports indicate that the Kremlin is limiting access to information under various pretexts, with the security services alleging that Ukraine uses Telegram for recruitment and sabotage. Additionally, a Human Rights Watch report highlighted the government's efforts to expand technological capabilities to obstruct access to undesirable websites, impacting press freedom and online expression. The messaging app Max was launched by VK, a company acquired by Yuri Kovalchuk, a close ally of President Putin, and is being promoted aggressively through state-owned media despite being privately owned.