The article analyzes the place and role of political parties in the process of political modernization of the Russian Federation, in the formation of a unified system of public power and in the functioning of the political system of society. Attention is focused on the historical background and stages of the development of the multiparty system in Russia, from the end of the XIX century to the present. It is concluded that in the context of foreign policy challenges and internal transformations, Russian political parties have demonstrated their maturity and ability to consolidate society around the priorities of state policy. The process of Russia's political modernization cannot be imagined without the active participation and development of political parties, which, despite all the challenges and deviations, continue to be an important factor in strengthening democratic institutions and state sovereignty.