Russia: Adopted Resolution to extend free access to important Internet resources (Resolution No. 1617)

On 30 September 2023, the Prime Minister of Russia adopted Resolution No. 1617, extending the duration for free access to socially significant online resources under the "Available Internet" program. This extension increases the period from 24 hours to 7 days that online resources have to grant access without requiring subscribers to reconnect. The Resolution amends the Law on Communications, establishing the legal obligation for telecom operators to offer citizens free access to socially significant online resources. The Resolution enters into force on 1 September 2024, and a special government commission will adopt the list of socially significant online resources required to provide access.