Story perspectives

Rising Xenophobia Threatens Tajik Migrants in Russia

10/11/2025

Summary

Story summary

More than 1.2 million Tajik nationals work in Russia, with remittances accounting for about 17% of Tajikistan's GDP.
Rising xenophobia and tighter laws in Russia threaten these migrants' safety, following a deadly attack attributed to Tajik militants.
Russia's economy remains reliant on migrant labor and will need an additional 2.5–3 million workers by 2030.
Tajikistan struggles to support returning workers and lacks a clear reintegration plan, while remittances remain vital.

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Story summary

More than 1.2 million Tajik nationals work in Russia, with remittances accounting for about 17% of Tajikistan's GDP.
Rising xenophobia and tighter laws in Russia threaten these migrants' safety, following a deadly attack attributed to Tajik militants.
Russia's economy remains reliant on migrant labor and will need an additional 2.5–3 million workers by 2030.
Tajikistan struggles to support returning workers and lacks a clear reintegration plan, while remittances remain vital.