Kyler Alvord
Updated on: October 11, 2024 2:09 pm GMT
In a significant move affecting thousands of Central Asian migrants, the governments of Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan have issued urgent advisories cautioning their citizens against non-essential travel to Russia. This warning stems from heightened security measures and the increased targeting of migrant workers following recent violent incidents and legislative changes in Russia.
Kyrgyzstan’s Third Warning to Citizens
On September 5, Kyrgyzstan’s Foreign Ministry reiterated its caution, advising citizens to “temporarily refrain” from traveling to Russia unless they have “compelling reasons” to do so. This marks the third travel advisory since a deadly attack in March at the Crocus City Hall in Moscow, where four assailants from Tajikistan killed 145 people. The subsequent crackdown on Central Asian migrant workers in Russia has raised alarms among Kyrgyz authorities.
Kyrgyzstan, which has historically maintained close ties with Russia, has faced challenges after Moscow’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Reports emerged of coercive recruitment practices targeting Central Asians for military service, particularly after the Kremlin’s announcement of partial mobilization in September 2022. In response, the authorities in Kyrgyzstan and other Central Asian nations have warned their citizens against potential involvement in foreign conflicts.
Impact of Increased Security Measures
The Crocus City Hall attack has intensified scrutiny on Central Asian migrants, leading to the enforcement of various migration regulations. The Kyrgyz Foreign Ministry’s most recent statement highlighted these ongoing “additional security measures” and “enhanced control” at Russian borders.
Kyrgyzstan’s government had previously issued travel warnings in March and May, urging citizens to be cautious due to the deteriorating conditions for migrants in Russia. The situation has been exacerbated by new legislative proposals in Russia that aim to impose stricter regulations on migrant workers.
Changing Dynamics of Labor Migration
Central Asian nations, particularly Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, heavily rely on remittances from nationals working abroad. A December 2023 World Bank report indicated that remittances accounted for approximately 48% of Tajikistan’s GDP (around $5.7 billion) and about 21% of Kyrgyzstan’s GDP (approximately $2.6 billion). Every year, millions of Central Asians migrate to Russia for employment, particularly in seasonal jobs across various sectors such as construction and services.
However, the recent crackdown on migrant workers has prompted many to reconsider their options. Increasingly, individuals are exploring alternative locations for work, such as the growing interest among Uzbeks in migrating to Poland, as reported by Agnieszka Pikulicka-Wilczewska.
Russian Legislative Changes and Their Effects
In July, the Russian State Duma introduced significant new regulations affecting migrants. One bill requires individuals to register for military service upon obtaining a Russian passport, threatening possible citizenship loss for non-compliance. Another proposed mechanism allows for expedited deportation of migrants without court intervention.
On the back of these legislative measures, Kyrgyz officials have expressed concern over an increase in entry refusals for Kyrgyz citizens at the Russian borders. Deputy Foreign Minister Almaz Imangaziev recently conveyed concerns during a meeting with Russia’s newly appointed ambassador, Sergei Vakunov. Nonetheless, the Kyrgyz government acknowledged that these measures are ostensibly aimed at bolstering security within Russia.
Future Considerations for Central Asian Migrants
In light of the Russian government’s evolving stance toward migrants, Kyrgyz Foreign Ministry officials have urged citizens to ensure their documentation is in order and to resolve any legal issues regarding residency in Russia. This advisory comes as a precaution against being classified under new restrictive measures, specifically the impending “expulsion regime,” set for implementation in February 2025.
The prospect of deteriorating conditions for Kyrgyz and Tajik migrants in Russia has incited fear and uncertainty among citizens considering travel. Current travel restrictions and the risk of heightened enforcement promote a hesitance to pursue opportunities in what has been a primary destination for labor migration over the years.
Regional Reactions and the Broader Implications
As both Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan navigate these challenges with Russia, there is a growing acknowledgment within Central Asian states that deeper economic integration and labor mobility under the framework of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) must be safeguarded.
President Sadyr Japarov’s discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin highlight the importance of maintaining access to the Russian labor market, which is vital to the economies of both Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. The EAEU was envisaged as a mechanism to facilitate such engagements, yet recent developments have underlined the fragility of that arrangement.
Russia’s rising nationalism and the perception of Central Asian migrants have also influenced the political narrative. Proposals for a moratorium on granting citizenship to migrants from Central Asia, though not likely to pass, reflect the shifting sentiments toward migrant communities.
Conclusion
The governments of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan are giving important warnings to their people living in Russia. Things are changing quickly, and new rules are making it harder for migrant workers. This situation also affects the economies back home. As other countries become better options for work, Central Asian countries need to adjust to these changes. They should also work hard to protect the rights and safety of their citizens living in other countries.
