Member-only story
Why Russia is Deporting Hundreds of Thousands This Year
In recent years, a growing crisis has emerged for Central Asian migrants who once sought better opportunities in Russia. With Russia implementing record-high deportations and tightening its immigration policies, tens of thousands of individuals from Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan are finding themselves stranded in their home countries, struggling with unemployment and economic instability. This alarming trend not only affects the lives of the migrants but also has profound implications for the socio-economic fabric of their native nations.
Since January 2024, Russia has dramatically escalated its efforts to deport Central Asian migrants. According to the Russian Interior Ministry, more than 143,000 individuals were denied entry to Russia between January and July 2024 — a staggering 53% increase compared to the same period in 2023. Additionally, nearly 93,000 people were deported during these seven months, marking a significant rise from previous years. The issuance of temporary and permanent residence permits has also plummeted by 44% and 18%, respectively, showcasing the government’s stringent stance against migrant populations.
