In a move discussed in the Russian parliament’s lower chamber, officials have outlined a plan to substitute foreign software with domestically developed alternatives. The information policy committee chair noted that the initiative would shift buying decisions toward Russian software across government operations, including operating systems and office suites, with the aim of strengthening national tech resilience. This stance was reported by RIA News.
According to the committee chair, the import substitution program in the lower house was personally initiated by Vyacheslav Volodin, the Speaker of the State Duma. He stressed that the goal is to prioritize homegrown digital solutions within federal agencies and public institutions, reducing reliance on imported platforms.
The deputy explained that the program concentrates on acquiring domestic software that already meets established national standards, particularly in the areas of security, reliability, and long-term support. Proponents argue that local developers have produced mature offerings that conform to current regulatory requirements and can seamlessly integrate with existing government workflows.
As part of this effort, the deputy indicated familiarity with the Astra Linux operating system and the MyOffice office suite, highlighting them as proven Russian alternatives capable of replacing widely used foreign products. Parliamentarians suggested that members and civil servants should not encounter significant obstacles when transitioning away from Windows and Microsoft Office toward Russian-made productivity tools.
In related remarks, a deputy emphasised the broader implications of digital sovereignty, noting that a robust, domestically supported software ecosystem can enhance security, data governance, and national tech leadership. The discussion underscored the importance of ensuring compatibility, staff training, and a phased rollout to minimize disruption while expanding the use of native solutions across ministries and regional administrations. [Source: RIA News]
Separately, there were comments about public perception and the potential effects of digital policy on everyday life, including how software choices influence education, healthcare, and public services. While debates continue, the focus remains on creating a stable, secure, and self-reliant software environment for government operations and critical infrastructure. [Source: RIA News]
Recent cybersecurity assessments have highlighted the ease with which passwords and credentials can sometimes be compromised when weak or outdated systems are used. This underscores the rationale for migrating to domestically developed software that receives continuous monitoring, regular security updates, and compliance with national standards. The overarching objective is to reduce exposure to international supply chain risks while fostering domestic innovation and industry growth. [Cited analyses and official briefs]