Russia wants companies to make software compatible with Linux

Russian companies must make their software compatible with Linux. This gives them a head start in tenders, according to new rules from the Ministry of Digitization. That probably has to do with the sanctions from the West.

The Russian Ministry of Digitization confirms to the newspaper Kommersant that it will come with new rules. Those rules determine when programs can be included in the national registry of approved software. The most important new rule is that new software must be compatible with Linux. The ministry also tells the newspaper that it is working on a list of requirements for a new operating system that can be used in the country instead of Windows. Companies that offer such compatibility are more likely to be selected in tenders.

Neither Kommersant nor the ministry makes any connection to the invasion of Ukraine and subsequent Western sanctions, but it’s hard to separate the shift to Linux. America and European countries have imposed strict trade restrictions on Russia. There may be more to follow in the future. Software is also subject to sanctions. Russia probably fears that software such as Windows and macOS will soon no longer be able and allowed to be used in the country and may be looking forward to that with the new legislation.

Kommersant spoke to several experts who fear problems. Russia is already developing several Russian versions of Linux, most notably ALT Linuxwhich is based on Sisyphus. The chairman of the board of ALT Linux developer Basalt tells the newspaper that it will probably take up to two years before the main automation systems in the country are fully compatible with ALT. Other experts, such as the director of developer Red Soft, think that some systems, such as those used by banks, need to be rebuilt from scratch. Earlier it appeared that at least 50,000 IT people have left Russia since the invasion.