The State Duma has unanimously approved a bill to establish a national multifunctional digital service in Russia. The decision, made on Tuesday, June 10th, was broadcast live from the Duma.

The platform will be operated by a Russian legal entity, designated by the government, and will exclusively own the platform. The service is mandated to utilize domestic software.

This initiative aims to provide a secure alternative to foreign messengers. The national messenger is planned to integrate with government services like “Gosuslugi” and ESIA.

Sergey Boyarsky, Chairman of the Information Policy Committee, emphasized the platform’s role in safeguarding citizens’ personal data and countering fraudulent activities prevalent in foreign messengers. The bill initially required separate consent for personal data processing, both in paper and digital form.

The Minister of Digital Development, Maksut Gadaev, previously outlined that the messenger will offer features like digital ID, electronic signatures, school chats, document management, and the exchange of legally binding messages. President Vladimir Putin has urged all departments to support the Russian project, highlighting its importance.

Anton Gorelkin, Deputy Head of the Duma IT Committee, clarified that the launch of the domestic messenger does not signify an immediate ban on Telegram. He suggested that as long as Telegram adheres to Russian laws, blocking measures would be unnecessary.