Telegram Founder Unveils Unprecedented Inheritance Plan
Pavel Durov, founder of the globally popular instant messaging app Telegram, recently announced that he will divide his estimated $13.9 billion (£10.3 billion) fortune among more than 100 children he fathered—both through relationships and extensive sperm donations over 15 years.
Speaking to French political magazine Le Point, Durov disclosed that he is the official father of six children with three partners. However, a fertility clinic where he once donated sperm revealed that more than 100 children have been conceived through his donations across 12 countries Pavel Durov.
Equal Rights for Over 100 Heirs
“They are all my children and will all have the same rights!” Pavel Durov emphasized during the interview. He said he made this decision to avoid disputes among his children after his death. Despite the enormous wealth involved, Durov has mandated that none of the children will have access to the inheritance for 30 years.
“I want them to live like normal people, to build themselves up alone, to learn to trust themselves, to be able to create, not to be dependent on a bank account,” he explained.
Legal Troubles in France
Durov’s surprising personal revelations come as he faces serious criminal charges in France. Last year, French authorities arrested him on allegations that he failed to properly moderate Telegram to prevent criminal activities such as drug trafficking, child abuse material sharing, and financial fraud.
However, Durov strongly denies these accusations, calling them “totally absurd.” He argues that just because some criminals use Telegram does not make its management complicit. Telegram has repeatedly defended its moderation practices, stating that it bans illegal content aggressively and maintains daily transparency reports.
Telegram’s Global Impact
Founded in 2013, Telegram boasts over one billion monthly active users worldwide. The platform’s strong emphasis on privacy, encryption, and freedom from government censorship has made it both widely popular and heavily scrutinized. While its advocates celebrate these features, critics warn that Telegram’s large group capacity (up to 200,000 members) enables extremist content, misinformation, and illegal activity to spread.
Telegram spokespersons have asserted that the app’s moderation exceeds industry standards and is not as vulnerable to algorithm-driven amplification of sensational or harmful content as other platforms.
Escaping Russia’s Control
Born in Russia, Durov previously co-founded VKontakte (VK), Russia’s largest social media platform. In 2014, he left VK after refusing Russian government requests to hand over user data and censor political content. He now resides in Dubai, holding dual citizenship in France and the United Arab Emirates, operating Telegram from its Dubai headquarters.
Reframing Legacy and Parenthood
Durov’s inheritance plan challenges traditional notions of wealth distribution and parenthood. By delaying the inheritance for 30 years, he hopes his children will develop independence and personal achievement before accessing his vast fortune. In a world where the super-rich often pass wealth directly to heirs, Durov’s approach stands apart as an attempt to prevent entitlement and encourage self-reliance.
Global Debate: Personal Freedom vs. Corporate Responsibility
His situation also raises larger discussions about the responsibilities of tech leaders. While defending personal freedoms and privacy, Telegram faces ongoing pressure from governments and watchdogs concerned about the misuse of encrypted platforms. Durov’s legal battles in France illustrate this ongoing tension between privacy advocacy and government regulation.
Conclusion: A Tech Billionaire’s Unconventional Legacy
As Durov continues to navigate legal challenges and massive business responsibilities, his unusual inheritance strategy may redefine billionaire legacy management in the digital age. His personal philosophy of independence, both for his business and family, continues to spark global fascination and debate.
Resources:
- Technology & Business News – The Morning News Informer
- Original Interview at Le Point
- Pavel Durov Biography
