Internet rules tighten grip without isolating Russia
Subject Moves to shield Russia from the global internet. Significance The Kremlin says its new 'sovereign internet law' is designed as insurance against hostile external attacks, not as a 'firewall' block against the outside world. A recent poll and a 15,000-strong demonstration in Moscow show that many Russians disagree. The government aims to route up to 95% of Russian internet raffic through domestic servers by 2020. Impacts The government will use technology and penalties to stop 'subversive' use of the internet. If effectively implemented, the new law could severely limit freedom of expression online. Internet traffic monitoring equipment will reduce network speeds, affecting the 'internet of things', telemedicine and driverless cars. Stifling innovation and e-commerce will have wider economic impacts.