Prime Minister of Tajikistan, Qohir Rasoulzoda, expressed concerns over the ongoing violations of the rights and freedoms of Tajik citizens during migration checks in Russia.
TASS reported on October 4 that speaking at the 20th session of the Russia-Tajikistan Intergovernmental Commission for Trade and Economic Cooperation, Rasoulzoda has highlighted the increasing issues Tajik migrants face, despite the growing demand for Tajik labor in Russia.
Rasoulzoda reportedly emphasized that there has been a rise in instances of denied entry, deportations, and travel bans imposed on Tajik citizens under the broad justification of “ensuring security.” He noted that people, including members of official delegations, students, the elderly, and even children, are often held at border crossings for hours or even days.
The Tajik Prime Minister expressed the need for “effective solutions” in migration cooperation to achieve mutual understanding between Tajikistan and Russia.
This issue is particularly pressing, as Russian employers are increasingly seeking labor from Tajikistan.
In response, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin proposed the creation of a working group to manage migration between the two countries.
He stressed those recent and upcoming changes to Russian migration laws are aimed at eliminating illegal migration. Khusnullin clarified that while Russia needs labor resources, these must be managed through legal channels. He also highlighted the importance of ensuring security for both nations and proposed a detailed plan for managing labor migration efficiently.
Several migration-related legislative proposals are currently under review in Russia’s lower chamber (State Duma) of parliament, aimed at further regulating migration policy.
Khusnullin reportedly concluded by emphasizing the need for a comprehensive exchange of data and a well-organized approach to migration management, ensuring clarity and cooperation between the two countries.
Recall, Tajikistan authorities last month warned citizens against traveling to Russia. The Tajik Embassy in Moscow on September 10 warned citizens against traveling to Russia for the time being, citing beefed-up security measures and increased document checks by Russian border guards.
In early September, the Kyrgyz Foreign Ministry put out a similar statement to its citizens citing the same reasons.
Central Asian migrant workers and visitors have faced increased scrutiny from Russian authorities following a deadly terrorist attack at an entertainment center near Moscow in March that left more than 140 people dead and hundreds injured. Russia arrested more than 20 suspects, mostly from Tajikistan.
