Tajik Migrants Facing Threats in Russia After Massacre

 

In the aftermath of the deadly attack at a concert hall near Moscow, innocent Tajik migrants across Russia have faced threats, verbal abuse, and increased harassment from law enforcement fueled by anger over the incident. Investigators say the attack was carried out by a gang of Tajik gunmen, triggering fear — not just among Tajiks but other Central Asian expat communities as well — about the potential long-term impact of intensified discrimination.

One Tajik migrant, Atovullo, described how his landlord immediately evicted him without cause following the attack. Finding housing has long been difficult for non-Europeans in Moscow — the situation may now become impossible. Out of concern for his children’s safety, Atovullo resolved to return to Tajikistan despite significant worries about migrants’ rights and welfare back home. Tajikistan has high unemployment and poverty, with remittances from migrant workers making up most of the economy.

Around 1.3 million Tajiks live in Russia, though the actual number may be higher as undocumented workers are undercounted. Since the attack, solidarity networks have warned fellow expats to stay home due to safety fears over their rights. Russian media report that police patrols and immigration enforcement have been ordered to increase document checks on foreigners. Forceful raids on migrant housing and workplaces were already commonplace.

The dark climate has left some migrants fearing for their lives. Taxi drivers note clients canceling once learning they are Tajik. With few formal activist groups after Russia’s Ukraine invasion, victims of abuse have no one to defend their rights. While a rapper made an online plea for tolerance, prospects seem grim for many Tajiks amid growing discrimination and a lack of migrant advocacy.