Russia Warns Digital Divide Risks New Form of Colonialism
Russia has warned that the growing digital divide could become a new global dividing line and fertile
ground for modern forms of colonialism if left unaddressed.
Andrey Akulchev, acting director of the Department of International Information Security at the Russian
Foreign Ministry, made the remarks on Tuesday during a session titled “AI as a Factor in the
Development of Russia and Africa: Science and Personnel” at the third Russia-Africa Summit and
Economic and Humanitarian Forum in Moscow.
Akulchev highlighted the stark disparity in digital infrastructure. He noted that Africa, home to nearly
one-fifth of the world’s population, accounts for less than one per cent of global data centre capacity.
“If everything is left as it is, the digital divide could become a new global watershed and fertile ground
for modern forms of colonialism,” he said.
The Russian diplomat added that Moscow advocates for a central role for the United Nations in
regulating artificial intelligence.
He opposed closed platforms where a narrow group of states develops rules and then imposes them on
the rest of the world.
The comments came as the Russia-Africa Summit, held on 28-29 October 2026, brought together African
leaders and focused on cooperation in technology, science and economic development.
Russian President Vladimir Putin separately told African leaders at the summit that Moscow does not
pursue neo-colonial exploitation of the continent.
By Oyinkansola Shittu.
