Websites of sanctioned Russian media remain widely accessible in the EU, with Slovakia performing worst among six countries surveyed, according to a report by the UK-based Institute for Strategic Dialogue. The study found that all sanctioned Russian media sites could still be accessed in Slovakia, reported AFP.
The EU banned 27 Russian media outlets after Russia invaded Ukraine, suspending their licenses and requiring member states to block their websites. However, the report says enforcement has been weak and inconsistent.
Researchers found 58 active domains linked to sanctioned media and criticised the European Commission for failing to provide clear guidance to states and internet providers. The think tank said Slovakia’s failure to enforce the ban stems from a lack of political will, noting that earlier restrictions on pro-Russian websites expired in 2022.
The survey was conducted in Germany, France, Italy, Poland, Czechia, and Slovakia. Germany and France scored highest in compliance, while Poland ranked just above Slovakia.
Source: AFP, TASR
