digital independence Archives

AppWizard

November 13, 2025

Tajikistan launches national messenger app ORIZ in “important step towards digital independence”

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AppWizard

November 12, 2025

Tajikistan launches state-backed messenger app

Tajikistan has launched its national messenger app, ORIZ, aimed at improving digital independence and data security for users, particularly Tajik migrants in Russia. The app's user data will be stored within Tajikistan, addressing concerns about reliance on foreign messaging platforms. This initiative aligns with similar efforts in Russia and Kazakhstan, as post-Soviet nations increasingly develop national messaging services. Tajikistan, the poorest former Soviet republic, has been governed by President Emomali Rahmon since the early 1990s, emphasizing state control in various sectors, including digital communication.

AppWizard

November 12, 2025

Tajikistan government launches messaging app to rival WhatsApp, Telegram – The Times of India

Tajikistan has launched its own national messaging app, ORIZ, to compete with established platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram. The app is aimed at enhancing connectivity for Tajik migrants in Russia, where access to popular messaging services is often restricted. ORIZ emphasizes data sovereignty, with the government ensuring that all user data is stored within the country, addressing security concerns associated with foreign networks. This initiative is part of a wider trend among post-Soviet nations to develop local digital solutions and reduce dependence on foreign technology.

AppWizard

June 29, 2025

Russia Launches State-Run Messaging App

Russia has introduced a state-backed messaging application, announced by President Vladimir Putin, aimed at providing a homegrown alternative to platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram. The initiative addresses national security concerns and seeks to enhance control over the digital landscape. The app will facilitate messaging, bill payments, form completions, and access to official records, all on a single platform. It promises standard messaging features and enhanced security measures. However, there are concerns about privacy and potential government surveillance, which may affect user adoption. This initiative is part of Russia's broader strategy to foster a self-sufficient technology ecosystem.

Winsage

June 27, 2025

This city is dumping Microsoft Office and Windows for OnlyOffice and Linux

Lyon, the third-largest city in France, is transitioning from Microsoft’s Windows and Office suite to open-source alternatives such as Linux, OnlyOffice, NextCloud, and PostgreSQL. This move is part of a broader strategy among European governments to enhance digital sovereignty and reduce reliance on American technology firms due to concerns over data security and autonomy. The city is developing a collaborative suite called Territoire Numérique Ouvert in partnership with regional digital organizations, which will be hosted in local data centers. The migration process is already underway, with municipal workstations moving from Windows to Linux and Microsoft Office being replaced by OnlyOffice. Lyon expects direct cost savings from this migration, including extending the lifespan of municipal hardware and reducing electronic waste. Over 50% of public contracts related to this project have been awarded to firms within the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, all to French companies. Training for approximately 10,000 civil servants began in June 2025 as part of the transition to Linux.

Winsage

June 16, 2025

“We’re done” – major government organization slams Microsoft Teams as it drops Windows for good

Schleswig-Holstein, the northernmost state of Germany, is eliminating all Microsoft products from its public offices, with the transition starting in 2023 and concluding by the end of 2025. The state is moving away from Microsoft tools, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams, in favor of open-source alternatives like LibreOffice and Linux-based operating systems. This decision is influenced by the geopolitical climate and aims to achieve greater digital independence while avoiding high licensing fees associated with Microsoft products. The potential savings could reach tens of millions of euros. Neighboring Danish cities, such as Copenhagen and Aarhus, are also considering similar transitions. However, challenges include interoperability issues and the need for employee retraining during the transition.