The main trends in the development of political and legal regulation of Russian internet space in 2018

The article discusses the main trends of political and legal regulation of public activity in the Russian Internet space in 2018 and defines Internet as the most powerful instrument for shaping public opinion and the political agenda in today's Russia. The author argues that this is the factor of increasing desire of the Russian authorities to regulate Internet activity. In this context, the author analyzes a number of key legislative acts and draft laws in this area, as well as other initiatives of public authorities aimed at ensuring control over the dissemination of information. In particular, the article discusses such resonant legislative initiatives of 2018 as de-criminalization of the article of the criminal code implying criminal punishment for reposts and likes on social networks and establishment of administrative penalties for disrespectful behavior on government bodies and officials on the Internet. The author holds the idea that the Russian government intentionally tightens control over the information environment in order to ensure the protection of state authorities and officials from possible reputational risks and exposures. The author also makes a forecast regarding the further evolution of Russian legislation in the information environment.