The Russian Federation, under the impetus of President Vladimir Putinrecently introduced a policy aimed at simplifying and speeding up residence permits for foreigners who share traditional Russian spiritual and moral values. The decree, signed on August 19, 2024, is part of a broader strategy to strengthen national values in the face of what the government sees as a destructive neoliberal ideology from the West..
The main aim of this initiative is to provide humanitarian support to people who reject the policies of their home countries, which are deemed contrary to Russian values. By offering refuge to these individuals, Russia seeks to strengthen its cultural and ideological influence on the international stage, while consolidating its national identity.
Eligibility criteria and procedure
The new decree provides for the granting of temporary 3-month residence permits to foreign citizens from countries with values opposed to those of Russia, probably not present among the 56 "unfriendly" countries decided by the Kremlin. These permits are issued beneficiaries do not have to prove their knowledge of the Russian language, Russian history or basic lawsunlike the usual procedures.
The application process has been simplified to encourage more people to settle in Russia. Applicants must demonstrate their adherence to traditional Russian values and their rejection of the neoliberal ideologies of their home countries.. The Russian Foreign Ministry has yet to specify exactly which states are considered to have destructive values, a list which must be approved by the government.
Comparison of migration policies
| Criteria | Russia (new decree) | Standard migration policy in Russia |
|---|---|---|
| Length of residence permit | 3 months | Variable, often longer |
| Language requirements | No requirements | Knowledge of Russian required |
| Knowledge of history | Not required | Required for most permits |
| Application process | Simplified, ideologically driven | Complex, based on administrative criteria |
| List of eligible countries | Based on values opposed to Russia | Not applicable |
International reactions
This new policy has provoked various reactions on the international scene. Some analysts see this initiative as an attempt by Russia to strengthening its soft power by attracting individuals who share its ideological values. Others see it as a in response to growing tensions with the Westexacerbated by political and cultural differences.
The decree has also been criticized by some Western countries, which see it as a political manoeuvre aimed at further polarizing international relations. On the other hand, some countries and individuals sharing a similar vision of traditional values have welcomed the initiative, seeing it as an opportunity to find refuge in an aligned country with their personal convictions.
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