Digital evolution of the Russian electoral system: technologies and stages of transformation

A comprehensive analysis of the digital evolution of the Russian electoral system, covering the transition from traditional paper procedures to automated, information, and digital technologies, has been carried out. The key stages of modernization in the period 1991–2025 have been studied, including implementation of office software solutions, a ballot scanner, the Vybory State Automated System in three generations, a complex for processing ballots, and stationary and portable electronic voting terminals, as well as remote electronic voting development using cryptographic protocols and blockchain technology. Special attention has been paid to the trans formation of routine procedures, the changing role of a person at various stages of the electoral process, and the increasing importance of using data analytics. The presented analysis has demonstrated how the use of end-to-end digital technologies reduces the risks of fraud and manipulation and increases the transparency of electoral procedures, the accessibility of participation in elections for various categories of citizens, and public confidence in democratic institutions of government. The paper identifies patterns and criteria for the transition among successive stages of automation, informatization, and digitalization, systematizes 7 key technological solutions of the modern electoral system, and justifies the formation of a promising autonomous digital platform “GAS Vybory 2.0”. The authors emphasize that the digital transformation of Russia’s electoral system is the logical result of a long term, consistent, and phased implementation of innovative technological solutions.