Internet and society: Russian Ministry of Mass Communications has posted the E-Democracy Development Concept for public discussion

The Unified E-Democracy Portal has posted the Russian Federation E-Democracy Development Concept up to 2020 for public comment and collection of suggestions. The Concept defines the main priorities, directions and stages of development in the Russian Federation of electronic democracy mechanisms. Citizens can voice their opinions on these matters within 30 days from the date of publication of the Concept.

As part of the state program "Information Society (2011-2020)," Russian Ministry of Communications has developed a system of "Electronic Democracy", which will not only become an effective tool for participation of citizens in matters of state and municipal governing, but will also increase the degree of openness of the state and development of democratic institutions in general. Currently, the system includes the portal and the remote module designed to be posted on the official websites of departments, which is in trial operation. As part of this project a methodology of e-democracy and regulations governing its existence and development in Russia, including the Concept proposed for public comment, are being developed.

Consider the use of electronic democracy tools in Russia and identify further ways of development in this area will also be possible at the First Federal Congress on e-democracy. It is scheduled for 17-18 May 2012, in Moscow, at the Russian State Library. The Congress will be attended by public figures, representatives of commercial organizations and government authorities.