Digital Transformations in the Public Sector of Russian Regions and Challenges to Ensuring Social Justice

Abstract

The article presents a comprehensive analysis of the impact of digital transformation in the public sector across Russian regions on ensuring social justice. Through examining regulatory and strategic documents (Government Directive No. 2998-r, Spatial Development Strategy), implementation practices of digital platforms (Unified Public Services Portal "Gosuslugi", Interagency Electronic Interaction Systems, Regional Situation Centers), and scholarly research, the dual nature of digitalization is revealed. On one hand, its potential to enhance service accessibility, governance transparency, and corruption reduction – particularly for remote territories and vulnerable groups – is demonstrated. On the other hand, the study systematically analyzes key challenges: deepening digital inequality (infrastructure limitations, digital literacy deficits, territorial disparities), risks of social exclusion among elderly and low-income populations, alongside issues of algorithmic discrimination and the erosion of the "human dimension". The authors substantiate the necessity of transitioning to an inclusive digitalization model, proposing concrete mechanisms: (1) Eliminating the digital divide through ICT infrastructure development and digital literacy programs; (2) Guaranteeing multi-channel access (preserving Multifunctional Public Service Centers, simplifying interfaces); (3) Adapting public administration to data-driven approaches; (4) Providing differentiated support for lagging regions. Social justice in the digital era necessitates prioritizing inclusivity over technological determinism. UDC: 004-048.35:[338.465:351](470+571); JEL: H83, R58, O35, I38