Notes

'Minecraft' Library Helps You Dodge News Media Censorship

There are many ways to circumvent the censorship of the press however it's becoming increasingly difficult when countries such as China and Russia are enforcing stricter rules on VPNs and similar tools. Reporters Without Borders believes it has the solution to the increasing problems: make the news accessible through a game that is seldom blocked. The team has collaborated with BlockWorks and MediaMonks on the Uncensored Library, a Minecraft map that contains stories from journalists and other sites whose work is frequently censored for its unflattering truths. You'll find stories from murdered Saudi Arabian journalist Jamal Khashoggi (whose fiancee Hatice Cengiz is a supporter of the project) as well as the activist-friendly Russian site Grani.ru and the Egyptian anti-corruption website Mada Masr, among others.



You can also find out more on the current situation of freedom of the press in 180 countries.



The library is a technological achievement in its own. It's like a massive neo-classical museum, with specific country wings and massive collection of books. You can't tear the library apart, but you can add more when you have the time and inclination.



Reporters Without Borders believes the Uncensored Library should be relatively resilient. Anyone can download the required map, and Minecraft's nature makes it easy to host a different server in case an oppressive government attempts to shut it down. This wouldn't last forever, however. Countries with already severe censorship policies don't have to think twice about bans on Minecraft outright This could be a temporary respite.



But that's not the point. This is also a satire on censorship, and a way to engage people who otherwise wouldn't be interested in such a difficult subject. Urbani slovar If it inspires a few Minecraft players to speak out for freedom of speech or pursue investigative reporting as a profession the game will have fulfilled its goal.


Website: https://urbanislovar.com/