Medvedev: Priority in Russia is the National Security and Interests of Russians

The influx of migrants to Russia is increasing, with a one-third rise reported in 2021 compared to 2020, stated Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of the Security Council of Russia. He highlighted the need for preventive work with diaspora leaders and to strengthen oversight of the conditions in migrant housing areas, according to RIA Novosti.

Recently, President Vladimir Putin signed a decree establishing an inter-agency commission to improve the country’s migration policy. Medvedev will head this new structure.

During a consultation with the public on issues of migrant adaptation and integration, Medvedev drew attention to the fact that many migrants have a poor command of the Russian language and underscored the necessity to address this problem. He noted that the largest foreign communities in Russia number between 1 million and 5 million people, primarily arriving from neighboring countries.

“According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the largest communities currently range from 1 million to 5 million. You wonder what size these communities can be. They largely come from Central Asian countries and are quite diverse groups with their particular characteristics. They often find themselves in conflicts,” said the Security Council’s Deputy Chairman.

Medvedev also emphasized that health screenings for migrants should become mandatory. “The flow of migrants is currently rising, especially following the easing of anti-pandemic measures in several countries, with a one-third increase in 2021 compared to 2020. Each year, several million foreign citizens arrive in our country,” he remarked.

The head of the inter-agency commission further noted that conditions must be created for foreigners in Russia, but the priority remains the national security and interests of Russians.

The newly established commission will address issues related to migration state policy, focusing on ensuring Russia's national security in the migration sector. The commission’s role in regulating migration processes is also highlighted in terms of enhancing the effectiveness of Russia’s socio-economic development.

Among the members of the commission are the Prosecutor General of Russia, the Director of the FSB, the President of the Investigative Committee, and the heads of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs of Russia.

It is worth noting that in January, Medvedev had stated that the shadow criminal market for services and the lack of oversight in this area pose serious threats to Russia’s security.