New Policy Targets Language Barriers and Legal Status of Migrant Children Mandating Language Exams Amid Rising Anti-Migrant Sentiments and Stricter Immigration Reforms
In a landmark move, Russian lawmakers have approved a bill requiring migrant children to pass a Russian language exam before they can enroll in schools.
The State Duma, Russia’s lower-house parliament, passed the legislation on Wednesday with an overwhelming 409-1 vote. The new rules, set to take effect on April 1, 2025, will also mandate checks of the children’s legal status in Russia before enrollment.
“Before enrolling the children in school, there will be mandatory checks of their legal status in Russia and their Russian language proficiency,”
announced Duma Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin.
The measure, Volodin said, addresses the fact that 41% of migrant children faced difficulties with Russian language skills at the start of this academic year.
Rising Anti-Migrant Sentiment
The legislation comes amidst a surge in anti-migrant sentiment following a deadly attack in March at a Moscow concert hall. The attack, linked to the Islamic State and allegedly carried out by citizens of Tajikistan, has heightened tensions.
In its aftermath, authorities launched police raids and deportations targeting migrants, many of whom come from impoverished former Soviet Central Asian republics.
A Tougher Stance on Migration
Since the beginning of 2024, the Duma has passed 14 bills aimed at tightening Russia’s migration policies and cracking down on illegal immigration. Volodin emphasized that the latest measures are part of broader efforts to “improve” migration policy.
The bill is now headed to the Federation Council for approval before being signed into law by President Vladimir Putin.
This policy marks a significant shift in Russia’s approach to integrating migrant communities, sparking debate over its potential impact on education and social cohesion.
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