Russia has restricted access to the world’s largest anime and manga database, citing concerns over the presence of LGBTQ+ content. This development follows a recent court decision in St. Petersburg, where a court banned several popular titles, including ‘Death Note,’ ‘Tokyo Ghoul,’ and ‘Inuyashiki,’ due to fears that they might influence young audiences with violent scenes.
Officials have emphasized the need to protect youth from harmful media, arguing that the content in these titles could lead to real-life violence. The decision has sparked debates about freedom of expression and censorship in Russia, raising questions about the balance between protecting minors and upholding artistic freedom.
The ban has impacted fans and creators, with many expressing concern over the loss of access to a vast repository of anime and manga. While the government maintains that the move is necessary for public safety, critics argue that it may stifle creative expression and limit cultural exchange.