Amendments to film distribution certificate legislation may significantly reduce the size of online platform libraries. The State Duma has adopted in its first reading a bill that would require all online platforms included in the register of audiovisual services (AVS) to obtain distribution certificates for every film in their library.

The bill also allows for the refusal of distribution certificates to films that “promote the denial of traditional values or discredit them.” This has raised concerns that many films, including classics and even children’s cartoons, may not meet the new criteria.

Owners of audiovisual services (AVS) estimate that 90% of their content lacks distribution certificates from the Ministry of Culture and Roskomnadzor. They say that legalizing existing libraries based on the Ministry of Culture’s current issuance rate would take years.

The lack of clear criteria for assessing “propaganda of the denial of traditional values” is a major concern. Roskomnadzor and the Ministry of Culture will need to develop these criteria if the law is adopted, leaving uncertainty about which films will be approved.

Examples of films that could potentially be affected include Soviet-era comedies, foreign films, and even Russian cartoons. Some worry that films featuring strong female characters, unconventional family structures, or themes deemed contrary to traditional values may be removed from online platforms.