Netflix faces complaint in Russia over LGBT content – Reuters

The Moscow department of Russia's interior ministry is probing a complaint against Netflix Inc. in relation to LGBT-themed content, Reuters reported Nov. 26, citing Vedomosti.

Olga Baranets, public commissioner for protecting families, alleged that the streaming service's airing of LGBT-themed series with a 16+ label was in breach of a 2013 local law that prohibits disseminating "propaganda on nontraditional sexual relations" among Russians below 18 years old.

Netflix had reportedly checked its LGBT content roster and found none with a 16+ label. The platform could be fined up to 1 million rubles or have its service temporarily suspended if found to have violated the law, Vedomosti reported.

The complaint against Netflix came as Russian officials are considering changes to regulations applied to online streaming services, according to Reuters.

The Russian government has been cracking down on foreign technology companies, especially social media platforms, through requirements such as opening local offices in the country or by imposing fines for not deleting content deemed illegal.

As of Nov. 25, US$1 was equivalent to 74.67 Russian rubles.