Russia May Establish a Ministry of Artificial Intelligence

A Ministry as a Driver of Development

Russia has proposed establishing a Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development. The initiative was put forward by Anton Tkachev, First Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Committee on Information Policy, Information Technologies, and Communications. Earlier, Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev announced the creation of a similar ministry, with its head to be appointed as a deputy prime minister. Tkachev described that move as 'a positive precedent.'

Given the rapid development of AI technologies and their impact on the economy, information, and national security, the idea is both timely and relevant. If such a ministry is established, the IT sector will move toward centralized management, reduced bureaucracy, and faster adoption of AI solutions. On a national scale, this would strengthen security, foster human capital development, and expand international cooperation in AI expertise.

Ordinary citizens would also feel the positive changes. They would be able to access more efficient government services, with improved quality through automated responses and optimized case management. Additionally, the public would be better protected against AI-driven manipulation.

Streamlining Coordination

The proposed ministry could oversee the safe coordination of Russian AI development, which in turn would support exports and strengthen Russia’s global market position. Domestically, it would simplify AI project coordination and create opportunities to integrate AI solutions into critical fields such as education, healthcare, and public administration.

Looking at Russia’s experience, we already have an AI Development Center under the Government and an AI department within the Ministry of Digital Development. But given the sheer scale of how this technology consumes and processes massive volumes of information—and how it influences people’s thinking—I believe we should consider setting up an authority with the proper mandate. Existing bodies often face bureaucratic barriers when it comes to decisions that require approval at higher levels

Anton Tkachev

First Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Committee on Information Policy, Information Technologies, and Communications

Beyond this, the ministry could serve as a central coordinator for the national project 'Data Economy and Digital Transformation of Government' (2025–2030), which includes measures aimed at advancing AI.

Steps Toward Sector Governance

Russia has made earlier attempts to coordinate AI development at the state level. The national project 'Digital Economy,' active until 2024, included an AI block, but it was implemented through interagency approaches rather than a dedicated ministry. The first step toward sector governance was the creation of the AI Development Center under the Government of Russia and an AI department within the Ministry of Digital Development. Still, no standalone agency was formed.

In May 2025, Kazakhstan adopted an AI law, after which the president proposed establishing a full-scale ministry. Kazakhstan also launched experimental projects such as AI-Bridge, which demonstrated interoperability between AI systems. Other examples of scaling AI ecosystems include the National AI Strategy, the launch of a supercomputer, and the Al Qyzmet program.

Strengthening Russia’s Position

The creation of a Ministry of AI in Russia would be a logical next step in the country’s digital transformation, enhancing its standing in international digital policy.

The ministry could be formed either within the framework of the current national project or as part of a separate reform. Its responsibilities might include managing research, coordinating legislation, overseeing workforce development, and advancing international initiatives. The new body would also help increase public trust, establish regional AI clusters, and stimulate the private sector.