In 2022, a new working concept emerged to capture the profound transformation within the Russian economy: the Information Secrecy Regime (ISR). This concept describes the increasing restrictions on access to critical economic data, catalysed by geopolitical developments and counter-sanctions imposed during and after the special military operation.
The rapid classification of information that was available to the public has marked a phase in Russia's economy. This shift has resulted in several key changes:
The ISR is not limited to traditional state or commercial secrets. Information rarely carries formal designations such as "top secret" or "confidential," nor is it bound by the usual legal restrictions tied to classified data. Instead, a significant amount of sensitive data is simply omitted from publication, creating a shadowy landscape where economic information is concealed by default rather than by law. This trend intensified under the Counter-Sanctions Information Regime (CSIR) implemented in 2022, which further restricted data access as a protective measure against external pressures.
Secrecy is nothing new in international economics, but events post-2014, and especially following February 24, 2022, have amplified the need for tighter information control. Data related to the geolocation of key infrastructures, supply chain routes, and the ownership of corporations are withheld to safeguard these from potential disruptions—whether by military strikes or sanctions lists.
The implications of the ISR and CSIR for the Russian economy are profound. The regime has made it significantly more difficult to analyse economic activity, likening the work of analysts to that of detectives. Information that was once readily available is now a jigsaw puzzle, and insights must be drawn from obscure sources such as managerial leaks, foreign reports, or indirect signs. For professionals in law, finance, and investigation, this shift represents both a challenge and an opportunity. Navigating these new layers of opacity requires adapting to a reality where information is a prized and concealed asset.
As ISR takes root, it reflects a broader shift in global geopolitics. The principles of economic secrecy, once confined to Russia, are now being adopted by other jurisdictions, especially those facing similar sanctions or security risks. This emerging field is becoming increasingly relevant for legal and investigative professionals, as new tools and methodologies are needed to work within these opaque environments. The ability to interpret indirect evidence, analyse fragmented data, and understand geopolitical complexities is now a vital skill set for those in the industry.
For professionals looking to stay ahead of these trends, mastering the nuances of ISR and CSIR is a promising avenue for career development. Those with expertise in law, investigation, and compliance will find significant opportunities in jurisdictions adopting similar regimes, as the need for specialized skills in managing, interpreting, and navigating secrecy-based economies grows.
To explore these concepts further, a comprehensive presentation, available for download, is linked below. This presentation delves deeper into the mechanics of the Information Secrecy Regime and offers insight into how professionals can leverage this knowledge for professional growth in a rapidly changing global economy.
The future of economic transparency remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: information secrecy has become central to the Russian economic narrative, and understanding this regime will be crucial for those looking to thrive in the evolving global landscape.
Click here to download the presentation.
