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DW: The Sochi Winter Games are set to start in just a few days (07.02.2014). Russia ranks 148 out of 179 in the Reporters Without Borders' Press Freedom Index.Why such a ranking?

Christian Mihr: Since May 2012 - the start of Vladimir Putin's third presidential term - numerous laws have been passed that allow censorship and extensive surveillance. Many journalists complain that these laws have placed them under the sword of Damocles. That leads to self-censorship.

We also observe numerous attacks on journalists in Russia. Since 2000, we have counted 30 journalists who have been killed. In just the past two years, there have been more than 30 attacks, most of which went unpunished. A large number of [the attacks] happened in the North Caucasus region, where the Olympic Games are to be held.

How does the Russian government control its media?

Nearly all media organizations are either government-owned or close to the government. Television in Russia was more or less brought into line. That poses a particular danger to press freedom because TV is the most important political information source for most Russians.

What laws are hindering the work of journalists in Russia?

The most recent example is a stricter cyber law to go into effect on February 1. The law allows blocking of websites with "extremist content," including calls for unauthorized protests that could also be published on journalistic websites.

Activists try to shed light on the numerous assasinations and agressions toward journalists

In November 2012, the Duma passed a law on treason and espionage. Everything that might threaten the country's security now qualifies as treason. That can pose a problem for journalists reporting on security issues.

In April 2013, all swearwords in media were banned. The ban applies to journalists, their interview partners and readers' comments. There is also a ban on "propaganda for non-traditional sexual relations in the presence of minors," which de facto also targets reports on homosexuals. Fines can run up to one million rubles (23,000 euros; $31,000). Media organizations can be shut down for up to 90 days.

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Reporters Without Borders: Russian laws 'lead to self-censorship'