After the terrorist attack at the "Crocus City Hall" concert hall in Moscow, Tajik migrants in Russia are increasingly facing xenophobia. Migrants complain of being detained, pressured, fired, and even beaten. In response to the tragedy, Russian authorities have decided to tighten control over the influx of migrants into the country, according to media reports citing a source in the Russian Foreign Ministry.
Following the attack at "Crocus City Hall," special police groups have been created to conduct additional checks on foreign citizens. These groups are divided into different directions, including hostels, management companies, and various routes where migrants will be checked alongside traffic police officers. In Ekaterinburg shopping centers, local authorities demanded lists of employees from Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Turkmenistan from tenants or face fines.
Tajik and Uzbek migrants working on construction sites in Russia, despite having all the necessary documents, were dismissed simply because of their nationality. Concerns are rising among Tajik migrants that these raids could lead to mass detentions and deportations. Meanwhile, Tajik diasporas are urging their fellow citizens to be cautious amidst a potential rise in xenophobic crimes.
In the aftermath of the terror attack, suspects were identified. One of them, 19-year-old Muhammadsoibir Fayzov, had worked at a barbershop in the Ivanovo region. This led to threats against the salon's staff. Close relatives of some migrants have reported the detention and disappearance of Tajik labor migrants.
Some Tajik migrants are considering returning to Tajikistan due to fear and discrimination. Despite holding Russian citizenship, they feel singled out and fear an escalation of xenophobia. Complaints about evictions and strict controls at Russian airports have also been raised by Tajik citizens.
The situation has also affected Kyrgyz migrants, with some being denied entry into Russia and facing intensified checks. As the spring migration season approaches, concerns grow that Russian authorities may further restrict entry for Tajik migrants. The tragic events at "Crocus City Hall" have exacerbated tensions and fears among migrant communities in Russia, prompting calls for vigilance and caution.
