The Role of Telegram Channels in the Transformation of the Political Ecosystem of Modern Society

Samoilov Pavel Andreevich Postgraduate student; Department of Organizational Design of Management Systems; Russian Academy of National Economy and Public Administration under the President of the Russian Federation 117574, Russia, Moscow, Golubinskaya str., 19, sq. 78 samoylovpavel9995@outlook.com Other publications by this author

Introduction. In the context of increasing digitalization and transformation of political processes, it becomes obvious that traditional models of analysis of political communication and power need to be rethought. The interaction of various actors in the digital environment forms new types of political structures that can be viewed through the prism of the integration of network and ecosystem approaches. This article focuses on the analysis of Telegram channels as the most important elements of the modern political ecosystem, where horizontal connections of self-organizing communities and vertical power structures intersect. This approach allows us to identify how digital technologies influence the transformation of political structures, contributing to decentralization and the growth of new forms of political participation.

The purpose of this article is to identify the specifics of the functioning of Telegram channels in the context of their role in shaping the political ecosystem of modern Russian society. Within the framework of this article, the following tasks are set: to substantiate the integration of network and ecosystem approaches and develop a combined methodology for analyzing Telegram channels; to conduct an empirical analysis of Telegram channels, identifying their key metrics and thematic features; to compare channels from the point of view of network and ecosystem elements; to determine the mechanisms of influence of Telegram channels on political mobilization and public opinion formation. opinions.

The choice of the Telegram channels studied was based on their thematic diversity, level of influence and reach of the target audience, which provides representativeness for the analysis of the Russian political ecosystem. Four channels were selected for the study: Ekaterina Mizulina (@yekaterina_mizulina), Ramzan Kadyrov (@RKadyrov_95), The Russian Community of ZOV (@obshina_ru) and the Movement of the First (@mypervie). These channels cover a wide range of topics, including patriotic values, Internet security, legislative initiatives, regional identity, youth activism, and volunteer activities. The thematic diversity allows us to identify how various aspects of political discourse are integrated into the digital environment.

The channels also differ in their target audience, including young people, regional residents, participants in social movements and active Internet users, which makes them significant elements of the Russian political ecosystem. The level of influence of the selected channels is confirmed by their active audience and high engagement, which allows them to be considered as key nodes of the digital political environment. In addition, the inclusion of both individual actors (for example, Ekaterina Mizulina and Ramzan Kadyrov) and institutional structures (such as the Russian Community of ZOV and the Movement of the First) provides a comprehensive analysis of the interaction of horizontal networks and vertical institutional elements. Thus, the selection of these channels provides a representative sample for studying the mechanisms of digital political mobilization and transformation of the political ecosystem.

Literature review. The analysis of modern literature demonstrates a significant interest of researchers in studying digital platforms such as Telegram in the context of political communication. The network approach developed by Manuel Castells ^[1], Mark Bevir and Rod Rhodes ^[2], Kristina Neumeier ^[3] and Saskia Sassen ^[4] emphasizes the role of horizontal interactions and self-organizing structures that contribute to the mobilization of citizens. These studies have shown that digital networks are transforming political processes, replacing traditional hierarchical models of power with more flexible structures. At the same time, the ecosystem approach, developed by James Moore ^[5], David Bollier ^[6] and refined in the works of Sokolov A.V., Frolov A. A. and Grebenko E. D. ^[7], pays attention to sustainability and the interrelationships between various actors that ensure the balance and adaptation of the political system. However, both approaches have their limitations. The network approach often ignores the sustainability provided by vertical structures, while the ecosystem approach does not sufficiently take into account the flexibility and dynamism of digital networks.

Most of the existing empirical studies of Telegram channels are limited to analyzing their individual aspects, such as public opinion management (O. I. Lyakhovenko ^[8], V. N. Dorokhin ^[9]), citizen mobilization (V. A. Pivovarov ^[10], E. A. Mokraya ^[11], A. P. Shpakovsky ^[12], K. I. Nagornyak ^[13]), legal regulation during election campaigning (P. M. Miroshkin ^[14]), "decolonization" in anti-Russian channels (M. R. Gabaraeva ^[15]), memory of the collapse of the USSR (A. Y. Bubnov and M. A. Savelyeva ^[16]), the influence of Telegram channels on the political behavior and formation of socio-political orientations of youth (Lavrinenko O. I. ^[17], Malik E. N. ^[18,19], Parma R. V. ^[20]), dissemination of disinformation (A. Knutila ^[21], D. A. Nobari ^[22]). The lack of a systematic approach that simultaneously takes into account horizontal (network) and vertical (ecosystem) elements leads to a fragmented understanding of their impact on the political ecosystem of society. Thus, the current literature does not sufficiently explain how Telegram channels integrate network connectivity and institutional resilience to adapt to the challenges of the digital age.

The novelty of the research lies in the application of the integration model previously developed by the author ^[23], combining network and ecosystem approaches, to analyze Telegram channels as key elements of the digital political ecosystem. This model allows us to consider Telegram channels not as isolated units, but as interconnected components in which horizontal connections provide flexibility and adaptability, and vertical structures contribute to the stability and integrity of the political system.

The application of this model to the study of Telegram channels made it possible to study in detail their engagement metrics, thematic accents and mechanisms of interaction with the audience. This made it possible for the first time to empirically confirm their role in political mobilization and shaping public opinion.

The novelty of the research also consists in identifying patterns of integration of horizontal and vertical elements, which expands the possibilities of using the model to analyze political communication in a digital environment. The results demonstrate how Telegram channels ensure the adaptation of the political system to the challenges of the digital age, combining elements of self-organization and institutional sustainability.

Thus, the study demonstrates the high applied value of the integration model for studying the mechanisms of digital political mobilization and social transformation, which opens up prospects for its further application to other platforms and political contexts.

Methodology and methods. The methodology and research methods in this article are based on the integration of network and ecosystem approaches for studying Telegram channels. This theoretical concept became the basis for the choice of research methods and thematic content, which allows us to empirically confirm the role of Telegram channels as interconnected components of the political ecosystem. In the framework of this study, we applied a comprehensive methodological approach combining quantitative and qualitative methods of analysis.

Using the information provided by the TGStat service, a quantitative analysis was carried out. To ensure a systematic approach to the quantitative analysis of Telegram channels, key metrics have been selected that allow an objective assessment of their impact, activity, and audience engagement. The presented indicators not only demonstrate the technical aspects of the functioning of the channels, but also provide an opportunity to assess their role in shaping the political ecosystem.

The table below shows the main analysis metrics, their description and purpose of use (see Table 1).

Table 1. – The main metrics of the quantitative analysis of Telegram channels

These metrics were chosen not only because of their versatility in research on digital platforms, but also because of their relevance to research objectives aimed at studying the mechanisms of horizontal and vertical connections in the political ecosystem. They allow us to identify the specifics of the functioning of channels as tools of digital political mobilization, as well as their role in maintaining the stability and adaptability of the political system in the context of digital transformation. This choice of metrics provides an empirical basis for integrating the network and ecosystem approaches underlying the theoretical concept of the study.

A qualitative analysis of the content of each of the channels revealed the key topics of publications, rhetorical strategies and ways of presenting patriotic discourse. The focus on patriotic discourse in qualitative analysis is due to its key role in shaping political identity and mobilizing citizens in modern Russian society. Patriotic rhetoric is an important element of the public political space, actively used by both individual and institutional actors to strengthen the unity of society, support government initiatives and counter external and internal challenges. In the context of the study of Telegram channels, patriotic discourse serves as an indicator of the interaction of horizontal networks and vertical structures, since it simultaneously contributes to the formation of public sentiment and supports the stability of the political system. This choice also meets the general purpose of the article — to identify the mechanisms of integration of network and ecosystem elements in the context of digital transformation. The analysis of patriotic discourse makes it possible not only to identify key thematic accents and rhetorical strategies, but also to identify ways in which Telegram channels influence political mobilization, the formation of public opinion, and the adaptation of the political ecosystem to the challenges of the digital age.

A comparative analysis was used to compare the results of quantitative and qualitative analysis to identify common trends and specific features of each of them.

Thus, the combination of quantitative and qualitative analysis methods made it possible to conduct a comprehensive study of the selected Telegram channels and gain a deep understanding of their role in the digital media space.

Results. December 2024 was chosen as the time period for quantitative analysis, which is due to the need to record the current state of the channels at the end of the study period. December is an indicative month for analysis, as during this period there is traditionally an increased activity in the information space associated with summing up the results of the year, covering significant political and social events, as well as forming forecasts and plans for the future. This time slice allows you to identify key trends relevant to the audience at the end of the year, which makes the analysis results as relevant as possible and reflect the current state of the political ecosystem.

The focus on December is also justified from the point of view of methodological expediency: the use of fresh data helps to increase the validity of the study and minimize the risk of outdated information. The indicators presented in the table serve not only as a tool for quantifying the impact of channels, but also to identify structural differences in their functioning (see Table 2).

Table 2. – Comparative analysis of Telegram channels based on information provided by TGStat

The depth of content analysis of four Telegram channels - "Russian Community ZOV" (@obshina_ru), "Ekaterina Mizulina" (@yekaterina_mizulina), "Ramzan Kadyrov" (@RKadyrov_95) and "Movement of the First" (@mypervie), is six months and covers the period from July to December 2024. The content analysis made it possible not only to identify and analyze the most popular topics that aroused the greatest response from the audience, but also to reflect deeper processes in the Russian political ecosystem (see Table 3).

Table 3. – The main topics in the analyzed Telegram channels

The data presented in the table shows that each of the channels focuses on specific topics relevant to its mission and target audience.

Discussion. The results of the quantitative analysis of Telegram channels, presented through key metrics, indicate the existence of a clear relationship between the characteristics of channels and their role in the political ecosystem.

@RKadyrov_95 is the oldest channel (7 years 5 months) with the most subscribers (2,108,525), while @mypervie is the youngest channel (2 years 4 months) with the least subscribers (196,448).

The @RKadyrov_95 channel has the highest citation index (5614) and a significant increase in subscribers (+22,390 in December 2024), despite the lowest publication frequency (~2.5 publications per day). This confirms his ability to effectively attract the attention of both the audience and other actors in the media space. Ramzan Kadyrov's growing influence was also confirmed by another TGStat metric. In the ranking of mentions of political leaders for December 2024. Ramzan Kadyrov rose by 12 positions compared to the previous month and took the fourth place after Putin V. V., Lavrov S. V. and Medvedev D. A. @RKadyrov_95 has the highest ER (8.45%), which indicates the deep involvement of the audience in the discussion of published content and underlines the importance of the channel in supporting regional identity and vertical communication.

The @yekaterina_mizulina channel demonstrates the highest level of engagement (ERR 21.3%), which indicates the active interaction of the audience with the content. The citation index is quite high (2,247). The decrease in the number of subscribers (-12,247 per month) may be due to the narrow specialization of content, which, despite the high level of engagement, limits the audience.

The @obshina_ru and @mypervie channels have minor changes in the number of subscribers over the month, which indicates audience stability. These channels have lower, but still significant, citation rates (1,460 and 1,855, respectively). @obshina_ru is the most active channel with ~21.6 posts per day and has a well-engaged audience (ERR 17.9%). @mypervie demonstrates stability, but a lower level of engagement (ERR 16.6%). Despite their small reach, both channels are characterized by sustained audience engagement, which confirms the thesis about the importance of horizontal connections for the digital political ecosystem.

The analysis showed that channels with fewer subscribers show a high level of engagement. This indicates that more narrowly focused or specialized channels can provide more active interaction with the audience, despite their limited reach. At the same time, channels with a large number of subscribers, like @RKadyrov_95, have significant reach, but the level of engagement may be lower, indicating the need to develop strategies to maintain the interest of a wide audience.

The high level of engagement of channels with less coverage is explained by several factors. Firstly, their content is often focused on narrowly focused topics, which attracts an audience with strong interest. This creates a community effect where subscribers feel involved in the dialogue. For example, @obshina_ru actively highlights issues of interethnic cooperation, which causes a significant response among users interested in such topics.

Secondly, the authors of these channels often pay special attention to interacting with the audience, including content personalization and taking into account the interests of subscribers. This helps to build trust and increase activity, which is confirmed by the high ERR and ER recorded in the study. In the case of @mypervie, the focus on youth initiatives and the stories of movement participants helps to create an emotional connection with the audience.

Finally, in channels with a smaller reach, subscribers perceive feedback as more meaningful, which increases their desire to participate in discussions and share content. These features make such channels particularly effective for targeted communication and maintaining sustained audience interest, which is important to consider when studying the mechanisms of digital political mobilization.

The channels owned by Ekaterina Mizulina and Ramzan Kadyrov demonstrate a personalized model of political communication, where the leader directly influences the audience by forming a network of supporters around himself. This reflects the concept of personalistic leadership, which is relevant to the political system of Russia and other states with a pronounced vertical of power. At the same time, the channels of organizations such as the Russian Community of ZOV and the Movement of the First are institutional platforms that focus on collective initiatives, volunteer movements, and civic mobilization. These channels reflect trends towards the decentralization of information flows and the strengthening of horizontal links in society, which corresponds to the ecosystem approach in political sociology.

Content analysis has shown that all four channels actively promote patriotic values, but approaches and accents differ. @yekaterina_mizulina's channel focuses on Internet security and the protection of national interests in the digital environment, while @RKadyrov_95 focuses on regional aspects and traditional values. @obshina_ru focuses on cultural and historical aspects, while @mypervie is aimed at a youth audience, promoting the ideas of leadership and civic engagement. This diversity of approaches reflects the versatility of patriotic discourse in Russian society and highlights the role of ICT in its dissemination.

Of particular interest is the @mypervie channel, aimed at young people. The high level of engagement and active discussion of publications indicate that digital platforms are becoming an effective tool for attracting young people to public and political life. This confirms the thesis about the increasing role of ICT in the political socialization of the younger generation.

From the point of view of the integration approach to the political ecosystem, the variety of topics of these channels demonstrates the multilayeredness and interconnectedness of various aspects of public life. Each channel contributes to shaping public opinion by reflecting the interests and values of certain social groups. This diversity contributes to a deeper understanding of political processes and public attitudes, which is valuable for sociological analysis and the development of social development strategies.

Ekaterina Mizulina's channel demonstrates the ecosystem element of sustainability through an emphasis on legislative initiatives and combating cyber threats, as well as network decentralization, creating a space for direct interaction with the audience. This is an example of a vertically integrated network where an actor plays the role of a connecting element between citizens and government institutions.

A qualitative analysis of Ramzan Kadyrov's channel shows that the channel's content is focused on strengthening traditional values, supporting government initiatives with an emphasis on Ramzan Kadyrov's personal charisma. The channel strengthens the regional identity through the direct connection of the leader with the population, which is a manifestation of the network approach. At the same time, its institutional support, reflected in official statements and events, highlights the ecosystem component of sustainability.

The channel of the Russian Community ZOV illustrates the work of an ecosystem where collective identity and cooperation are key. Popular publications demonstrate how horizontal connections ensure the mobilization and dissemination of information, which corresponds to a network approach.

The Telegram channel "Movement of the First" shows how the horizontal self-organization of youth (the network aspect) integrates with the support of volunteer and educational initiatives, forming a sustainable ecosystem of civic engagement.

Let's make a comparative analysis of channels from the point of view of network and ecosystem approaches to the political ecosystem of society (see Table 4).

Table 4. – Comparative analysis of channels from the point of view of network and ecosystem approaches

Thus, the integration of network and ecosystem approaches in the analysis of Telegram channels demonstrates how various elements of the political ecosystem function and interact in the digital space. Telegram channels are becoming platforms where information flows form new structures of power and influence, providing both horizontal self-organization and vertical links with government institutions.

A comparative analysis of all four channels shows that their strategic and thematic features determine their functional role in the political ecosystem. The high level of ERR, combined with a thematic focus on patriotism and mobilization, confirms the conclusion that digital platforms such as Telegram effectively contribute to the formation and maintenance of public discourses. These data not only support the conclusions reached, but also point to the prospects of using such channels to strengthen social resilience and political mobilization.

This analysis shows that the integration of network and ecosystem approaches not only explains the current transformations in the political sphere, but also creates the basis for predicting future changes. This is especially true for the Russian political ecosystem, where the digitalization of public life and the active use of social platforms are becoming important factors in the formation of civic identity and political culture.

It should be noted that the use of data from TGStat, although it provides extensive information, has its limitations. Some metrics may not fully reflect the depth of the audience's interaction with the content, and qualitative analysis of publications requires subjective interpretation. In addition, the dynamics of subscribers and engagement may be affected by external factors, such as news events or changes in the political environment.

Further research may be aimed at a more detailed analysis of the specifics of the content of each channel, studying the interaction between different platforms and their impact on the formation of political sentiments. It is also of interest to study the effectiveness of various communication strategies depending on the demographic characteristics of the audience.

In general, the results of our research confirm the significant role of Telegram channels in shaping the political ecosystem of Russian society, emphasizing the importance of ICT in modern processes of political communication and mobilization.

Output s. The study confirmed that Telegram channels are significant elements of the modern political ecosystem, performing key functions in the context of digital transformation. They simultaneously ensure the horizontal connections of self-organizing communities and the vertical stability of institutional structures.

An analysis of the data from four Telegram channels showed differences in their strategies for interacting with the audience. Highly specialized channels such as @mypervie and @obshina_ru have shown a high level of engagement due to the personalization of content and the focus on the interests of the target audience. At the same time, large channels, such as @RKadyrov_95, have large-scale coverage, allowing them to spread significant initiatives to a wide audience, but at the same time they show less user activity in discussions.

The identified engagement metrics and thematic accents confirm that Telegram channels effectively promote patriotic values and mobilize various social groups. This is especially evident in their ability to adapt to the interests of the audience, reflecting both local and national priorities.

The use of an integration model combining network and ecosystem approaches has made it possible to identify the mechanisms of interaction between horizontal and vertical elements of the political ecosystem. This approach demonstrated how digital technologies contribute to the flexibility and adaptation of political structures in the context of increasing digitalization.

The practical significance of the results lies in the possibility of using them to develop digital communication strategies aimed at increasing the level of involvement of citizens, especially young people, in public and political life. The findings can be useful for scientists, educators, politicians, political technologists, government agencies and social movements working in the digital age.

Conclusion. This study has confirmed the importance of Telegram channels in the transformation of the modern political ecosystem. Digital platforms have become not only communication tools, but also a space where the interests of various social groups intersect, ensuring the adaptation of the political system to the challenges of the digital age.

The use of an integration model combining network and ecosystem approaches allowed us to consider Telegram channels as complex systems that connect horizontal and vertical elements. This provided an opportunity to analyze their role in political mobilization, shaping public opinion, and maintaining social sustainability.

The identified features of thematic accents, audience engagement, and channel interaction with subscribers demonstrated how digital technologies are transforming traditional forms of political communication, contributing to the decentralization of information flows and strengthening horizontal connections. Telegram channels not only reflect the interests of target groups, but also actively form new directions of political discourse.

The prospects for further research lie in the analysis of other digital platforms and their interaction with the political system, as well as in the study of the long-term impact of technology on political culture. These areas will open up new opportunities for understanding the mechanisms of digital transformation of society.

Thus, the results of the study not only enriched the theoretical basis for the study of digital political communication, but also provided practical recommendations that can be used to develop strategies that contribute to strengthening social unity and developing political culture in the context of digitalization.