Russia Moves Judicial Appointments Online

A secure digital system is set to streamline the process of selecting judges in Russia, replacing paperwork with encrypted online workflows.

Russia’s Judicial Department is preparing to roll out a new set of digital tools that will allow regional qualification boards to review judicial candidates entirely online. The announcement was made by Vladislav Ivanov, Director General of the Judicial Department at the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation, during a national seminar with board chairs.

The key goal of the initiative is to fully digitize the candidate evaluation process. Applicants will be able to receive information, fill out forms, and submit documents online. Qualification boards will handle applications and issue inquiries digitally, with paper used only when absolutely necessary.

Security is a top priority. The department plans to introduce a protected document management system capable of handling materials labeled 'For Official Use Only'. Ivanov noted that the system is being developed in coordination with the Ministry of Digital Development.

Some features are already active via the 'VIV' software-hardware platform, which enables many procedural requests to be processed electronically. The Judicial Department will continue building out the digital system in partnership with the High Qualification Board of Judges.

Another key objective is to develop a tool for identifying and shortlisting promising judicial candidates. Ivanov said this would improve the efficiency of managing the judicial talent pipeline.