Pavel Durov and Juli Vavilova Attend amfAR Gala at Cannes Film Festival 2025

The Birth of VKontakte (VK)

In 2006, at the age of 21, Pavel, along with his older brother Nikolai Durov, co-founded VKontakte (VK), Russia’s largest social networking site. VK was designed as a platform for social interaction, messaging, and content sharing. It quickly gained popularity among Russian youth and became the dominant social media platform in Russia and several other countries of the former Soviet Union.

VK’s success was driven by its user-friendly interface, privacy features, and innovative approach to content sharing. Pavel’s background in cryptography and security influenced the platform’s emphasis on user privacy and data protection, setting VK apart from other social networks of the time.

VKontakte’s rapid growth attracted both users and attention from authorities. Pavel’s vision for an open, free internet resonated with many users but also raised concerns among government officials about content regulation and censorship. Despite its success, VK faced several challenges, including disputes over data privacy and conflicts with the Russian government.

Conflict with Russian Authorities and Departure from VK

By 2013, tensions between VK’s management and Russian authorities escalated. The government pushed for greater control over online content, citing concerns about extremism, illegal content, and political dissent. Pavel Durov, a staunch advocate for internet freedom and privacy, opposed increased censorship and government interference.

In 2014, amid mounting pressure, Pavel announced his departure from VKontakte. Reports indicated that he was forced out due to disagreements with new owners who sought to align the platform more closely with government interests. Pavel’s refusal to cooperate with Russian authorities on content moderation and data sharing led to a series of conflicts.

Shortly after leaving VK, Pavel decided to leave Russia altogether, citing concerns over privacy violations and political repression. He moved to Berlin, Germany, where he began focusing on developing a new messaging platform that prioritized privacy, security, and free expression.

May 24, 2025 | 1:13 pm