Russia Banned Roblox For Its LGBT Agenda

Russia has just blocked access to Roblox, one of the most popular children’s gaming platforms in the world.

The decision came after the national communications regulator Roskomnadzor accused the platform of spreading extremist content and "LGBT propaganda."

Roskomnadzor said the platform is "rife with inappropriate content that can negatively impact the spiritual and moral development of children."

The ban marks another move in Russia’s ongoing crackdown on foreign digital platforms and content linked to LGBTQ representation.

Russia has tightened control over Western platforms in recent years. The government continues to target companies it believes violate national laws tied to extremism, security, or LGBTQ representation.

Courts in the country routinely issue fines to organizations that breach what is known as the "LGBT propaganda" law.

Authorities expanded this regulation in 2023 when Russia declared what it calls the "international LGBT movement" extremist and linked support for it to terrorism charges.

President Vladimir Putin previously framed LGBTQ protections as harmful. He said such measures represent a move "towards open satanism."

The pressure has forced companies to adjust. Last year, Duolingo removed references to what Russia calls "non-traditional sexual relations" after a warning from regulators.

Messaging platforms also remain under scrutiny. In August, officials began limiting some WhatsApp and Telegram calls, accusing them of refusing cooperation in fraud and terrorism cases. Last week, Roskomnadzor warned it may block WhatsApp entirely.

Roblox averaged 151.5 million daily active users in the third quarter of this year. It remains one of the largest entertainment platforms for children and teenagers worldwide.

Iraq and Turkey have already banned the platform, citing concerns over predators who exploit young users. Critics and child-safety groups have flagged Roblox several times for moderation failures.

To address these concerns, Roblox says it deploys strict monitoring. The company states on its website that it is committed to safety and relies on "AI tools, moderation teams and collaboration with law enforcement and child safety experts."

Observers note that Russia’s ban appears less concerned with these long-standing safety risks and more focused on cultural restrictions.