Is Quora Working in Russia?

Since August 11, 2022, Quora has been banned in Russia, primarily due to its refusal to remove certain questions related to gunpowder manufacture and explosives, such as molotov cocktails and lethal arms.

The Current Status and Usage of Quora in Russia

Despite the ban, Quora is still technically functional in Russia, but its usage is limited. The platform has a minuscule userbase in the country, with only a few thousand active users, including myself. The primary reason for this low usage is that the content on Quora is primarily in English, and the interface does not support Russian. As a result, the platform does not interest the authorities or casual Russian users who do not need to encounter it.

Moreover, the platform is seen by some Russian users as a place where they can find information and engage in discussions, distinguishing it from other platforms they may find problematic. This limited usage might be seen as a positive development, as it prevents the spread of content that could be harmful or inappropriate.

The Impact of Censorship on Russian Usage

The ban on Quora in Russia has also led to the emergence of a small but noticeable group of users seeking to justify their interest in the platform. Some Russian internet users have been trying to defend Putin's actions and ideology, often engaging in behavior that can be described as subservient and unreasonable. These users display a level of worship towards Putin, similar to that of serfs towards their overlords, which is both pathetic and quaint.

They often position themselves as opponents to Western norms and values, but their attempts to do so are met with ridicule. For instance, comparing their efforts to Boris Johnson's sharp-minded professionalism would be like comparing apples to oranges. The quality of their arguments and defense of Putin's actions is so poor that it raises questions about their true motivations and expectations.

The Language Barrier

One of the main issues faced by Russian users is the language barrier. While English proficiency in Russia has improved, it is still not at a level where many users can fluently engage with the content on Quora. The platform's lack of Russian language support or translation features further exacerbates this issue. Many users find it necessary to check every tenth word in a dictionary, which can be a significant distraction and barrier to enjoying the platform.

For those who have already developed a high level of English proficiency, either through previous work experience or formal education, Quora can be a valuable resource. It serves as a tool for understanding mainstream Western subjects, providing a simplified and digestible version of complex topics. However, for the average Russian user, Quora remains an unpopular platform due to the language barrier and the lack of Russian language support.

Conclusion

Quora is working in Russia, but its impact and usage are limited due to the ban and the language barrier. While it provides a unique platform for Russian users to engage with Western content and find information, its functionality is significantly hampered by these factors. The future of Quora in Russia will likely depend on how these issues are addressed, particularly through the development of multilingual support and localization efforts.