Old Problems Resurface
Migration issues have topped the Russian political agenda after a tragic incident in a Moscow suburb. Legal and illegal foreign and domestic migrants have been engaged in various conflicts with the traditional population throughout the country, sometimes causing street protests and riots. In absence of a simple solution, the problem has caused fierce political discussions, allowing nationalists to take advantage of the public dissatisfaction. The ruling elite has not been able to find a viable solution.
The Fair Russia party, which was once envisioned as a left-wing support for the ruling elite, is in a deepening crisis. It has been increasingly unable to embrace the protest vote or undermine public support for the communists. It also lost a large share of the Kremlin’s backing when it tried to compete with United Russia.
Russia’s declared interest in increasing ties with Asia has not been implemented on the policy level, as Russia did not follow through with its own initiatives in the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation, and the President never participated in the East Asia Summit. Although Asia Pacific is still named as a key geographical priority for Russia’s foreign diplomacy, in reality there is very limited cooperation.
Russians do not believe that amnesty can solve the immigration problem, and the attitude is especially strong in large cities, especially in Moscow and St. Petersburg. However, the rural population is also skeptical about an amnesty for illegal immigrants.
Now read on...
Register to sample a report