Tajikistan Mandates National Messaging App, Stoking Surveillance Fears

The government of Tajikistan has launched a state-approved messaging service named ORIZ. Authorities will soon require all public officials to use it for work communications. The move is part of a official policy called "digital sovereignty." This aims to reduce reliance on foreign digital platforms. Similar government-led messaging apps exist in Russia and Kazakhstan. Digital rights advocates express concern. They fear the app will enable greater state surveillance of citizens. Tajikistan’s government has long been criticized by international groups for suppressing dissent and limiting freedoms. A government spokesperson stated ORIZ ensures secure communication for officials. No timeline was given for a potential expansion of the mandate to all citizens.