Central Asian Guest Workers Struggle with Increased Suspicion and Stricter Border Policies in Russia
Central Asian guest workers are currently facing challenges when trying to enter Russia, as politicians are responding to societal sentiments with stricter laws. Despite these efforts, immigrants are not easily deterred. Those who are not immediately processed at passport control in Moscow airports are placed in a penalty box, where they undergo additional checks by border officials affiliated with the FSB secret service. This process can take minutes or even hours, with or without questioning, and is referred to as an “additional check.” Migrant workers from Central Asia wait at all hours of the day or night, most of them being taken to meeting rooms for questioning, phone searches, and document checks. Individuals deemed suspicious by Russian authorities are denied entry into the country altogether.
Following a terrorist attack on Crocus City Hall in Moscow involving Tajik bombers, travelers from Tajikistan are viewed with increased suspicion. Attacks on Central Asian migrants in Russia have risen, with police raids on mosques, cafes, and workplaces of guest workers. The Tajik Foreign Ministry recently criticized Russia for holding over a thousand Tajiks at Moscow airports in unsanitary conditions without adequate food. While Russia claims the additional checks are for security reasons and not based on nationality, Tajik and Kyrgyz governments have expressed concerns and advised against unnecessary travel to Russia.
The Russian government faces pressure to address public concerns about foreign workers, leading to proposals for tighter migration legislation and enforcement measures. Central Asian states’ reluctance to restrict their citizens’ access to work in Russia poses economic challenges for both sides. While tension may arise from recent migration issues, they strive to maintain positive relations due to economic interdependence. The rise of online betting as a popular form of entertainment brings about controversy and regulatory challenges within the industry. As technology continues to evolve, online betting presents both opportunities for entertainment and risks for potential harm.
Despite these challenges, migrant workers from Central Asia continue to seek employment opportunities in Russia’s various industries facing worker shortages. However, Russian society’s suspicion towards foreigners has fueled a demand for stricter migration policies that include biometric registration and loyalty declarations upon entry.
Reports have surfaced of thousands of Central Asians stranded at Russian airports and land borders with Kazakhstan
