Archive · 12 Nov 2025
Tajikistan Launches State-Backed Messenger App ORIZ
Imagine a country wants to make its own special phone app for talking to friends and family, like WhatsApp.
Tajikistan has made a new app called ORIZ.
They say this is important so they don't have to rely too much on apps made by other countries, which they believe can be safer for their information.
It's also meant to help Tajik people who work far away in Russia, where it's sometimes hard to use their usual apps.
Other countries like Russia and Kazakhstan are also making their own apps.
Some people worry that when governments make these apps, they might be able to see what people are saying, which could be a problem for privacy.
Tajikistan has launched a new national messenger app called ORIZ.
The app is intended to foster digital independence and enhance information security.
ORIZ aims to assist Tajik migrants in Russia, where access to popular apps is limited.
All user data will be stored within Tajikistan.
Critics have raised concerns that state-backed messenger apps could compromise user data.
- Who
- Tajikistan's communications service
- What
- Launched a national messenger app named ORIZ
- When
- On Tuesday
- Where
- Tajikistan
- Why
- To promote digital independence, enhance information security, and serve Tajik migrants working in Russia where foreign apps have limited access.
Tajik Government
Critics
Digital Independence and Security
Tajik Government
The app, ORIZ, is an important step towards Tajikistan’s digital independence and can help with information security by reducing dependence on foreign networks.
Critics
Critics warn that state-backed apps like ORIZ could compromise user data.
- App Name
- ORIZ
- Launch Date
- Tuesday
- Primary Goal
- Digital independence, security, and serving Tajik migrants in Russia.
- Data Storage
- Within Tajikistan
- Comparable Projects
- Russia's MAX messenger, Kazakhstan's Aitu app