Russia’s new AI committee could be led by a lawmaker who helped write the country’s original ‘foreign agents’ law

Russia's upcoming State Duma will feature a committee dedicated to digital development and artificial intelligence, according to United Russia leader Dmitry Medvedev. The party has chosen Alexander Sidyakin, a seasoned lawmaker and current head of the party's central executive committee, to lead the new committee. Sidyakin, 48, has a notable background, having served three terms in the State Duma.

A source cited by Vedomosti revealed that the committee's mandate would encompass technological advancements in areas such as online marketplaces, drones, and artificial intelligence, as well as creative industries.

Sidyakin's expertise in AI-related matters is further underscored by his role in crafting key legislation. In 2012, he was a principal author of a bill that designated Russian NGOs as "foreign agents" if they engaged in political activity and received funding from abroad. At the time, Sidyakin argued for the bill, stating, "Either we speculate about payments worth millions from foreign ministries to promote democracy and express outrage, or we officially recognize these entities as serving other countries' interests." This stance followed the May 6 protests on Bolotnaya Square, which led to the passage of the bill.

Beyond AI and creative industries, Sidyakin also championed legislation to impose stringent penalties for violations at rallies, which could reach up to 1.5 million rubles after the aforementioned protests. Meduza, a news outlet committed to transparency, reported this story using artificial intelligence tools in collaboration with human journalists.

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