What are the struggles faced by migrant workers in Russia during the lockdown?

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Migrant Workers in Russia Face Severe Hardship During Lockdown

Migrant workers in Russia are experiencing significant difficulties due to the ongoing coronavirus lockdown, including widespread job losses, unpaid wages, and an inability to return to their home countries. These individuals, many of whom were already in precarious employment situations, are now relying on loans and assistance from their communities and charities to survive. The Russian government has not extended any state support to these migrant populations during the crisis, leaving them particularly vulnerable.
Widespread Job Losses and Unpaid Wages

The lockdown has led to a severe contraction in employment opportunities for migrant workers across Russia. In the Moscow region alone, 2.2 million legally registered migrants have lost their jobs in sectors such as construction. This figure is likely an underestimation, as many migrants work in the informal economy and are therefore not officially accounted for, making them more susceptible to exploitation and wage theft. Reports indicate that employers have frequently underpaid or failed to pay migrant workers altogether, exacerbating their financial distress.
Stranded Without Means to Return Home

With international flights grounded due to the pandemic, migrant workers are unable to travel back to their home countries. This situation leaves them stranded in Russia without income, savings, or the ability to access familiar support networks. The lack of clear timelines for the easing of lockdown measures further compounds their uncertainty, as they face an indefinite period of hardship in a foreign country.
Reliance on Community and Charitable Support

In the absence of government assistance, migrant communities and charitable organisations have stepped in to provide essential aid. Initiatives include the distribution of food staples like rice, flour, and potatoes to families in need. Some individuals have taken it upon themselves to raise funds, such as the 900,000 roubles (approximately RM52,755) collected by one blogger, to purchase and distribute food. Charities are actively involved in providing sustenance to those who are "starving" and stuck without the means to earn a living or return home.
Exclusion from State Support Measures

Migrant workers are explicitly excluded from the state support measures that the Russian government has implemented for citizens and businesses affected by the economic fallout of the pandemic. This exclusion has drawn criticism from some observers, with calls made for emergency measures to include migrants in benefit schemes. The lack of official support leaves these vulnerable populations entirely dependent on informal networks and the goodwill of charities and peers for their basic survival.

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What are the struggles faced by migrant workers in Russia during the lockdown?

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