Counter-Strike and GTA Banned in Tajikistan
Tajikistan Blocks Access to 'Violent' Video Games
The government of Tajikistan has banned access to several popular video games, including Counter-Strike and Grand Theft Auto, citing concerns over their violent content. The ban was announced by the country's communications regulator, which said that the games had been blocked because they "promote violence, extremism, and terrorism."
Games Seen as Promoting Violence
The Tajik government has been criticized by human rights groups for its crackdown on freedom of expression. In recent years, the government has banned dozens of websites and social media accounts, and has imprisoned several journalists and activists.
The ban on video games is likely to be seen as another attempt by the government to control the flow of information in the country. However, it is unclear how effective the ban will be, as many Tajik citizens have already found ways to access banned content online.
Tajikistan's History of Internet Censorship
Tajikistan has a long history of internet censorship. In 2012, the government passed a law that gave the government the power to block websites that it deems to be "extremist" or "harmful to national security." The law has been used to block a wide range of websites, including news sites, social media platforms, and human rights websites.
In 2018, the government launched a new campaign to crack down on online dissent. This campaign has included the arrest of several journalists and activists, and the blocking of dozens of websites and social media accounts.
The Ban's Impact on Tajikistan's Gaming Community
The ban on video games is likely to have a significant impact on Tajikistan's gaming community. Counter-Strike and Grand Theft Auto are two of the most popular video games in the country, and their ban is likely to leave many gamers disappointed.
It is unclear how the government will enforce the ban. It is possible that the government will block access to the games' websites and online stores. However, it is also possible that gamers will find ways to access the games through other means, such as VPNs or proxy servers.
Conclusion
The ban on video games in Tajikistan is a worrying development for freedom of expression in the country. The ban is likely to have a significant impact on the country's gaming community, and it could also be a sign of a broader crackdown on online dissent.
It is important to note that the ban on video games is not unique to Tajikistan. Several other countries have also banned or restricted access to video games that they deem to be too violent. However, the ban in Tajikistan is particularly concerning given the country's history of internet censorship.
