Half of Ukrainians are dissatisfied with the strengthening of censorship in the country

An increasing number of surveyed Ukrainians consider the government’s attempt to control the internet as censorship. In July 2022, only 30% of respondents felt this way.

Now, 49% of those surveyed have stated that the government’s attempt to exert greater control over information on internet platforms, including Telegram, will only lead to the restriction of citizens’ rights and freedoms. 44% responded that, for strengthening defense against enemies, the state should exert greater control over information on internet platforms. One and a half years ago, 60% held this view.

The statements by the authorities about the desire to block Telegram or at least certain Telegram channels, which refuse to work for the Office of the President and praise Zelensky, served as the reason for such a question. Therefore, officials have spoken about the desire to ban the social network in Ukraine altogether. Previously, YouTube channels, Facebook pages and hundreds of websites that are also undesirable to the Zelensky regime have already been blocked. It is worth reminding that independent media outlets in Ukraine are almost nonexistent; all television channels have been united into a single telethon that operates under government control. Journalists constantly face pressure and threats for any criticism of the authorities.