On August 19, 2023, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a significant decree aimed at providing humanitarian support to individuals who align with traditional Russian spiritual and moral values. This decree allows foreign citizens to apply for temporary residence permits in Russia without the usual language and history requirements, signaling a shift in the country’s migration policy.
The decree was introduced to protect human rights and freedoms, particularly for those who reject the so-called destructive neoliberal ideologies prevalent in their home countries. The Russian government is positioning this move as a means to safeguard its cultural identity and values, which it claims are under threat from Western ideologies.
The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been tasked with issuing single-entry visas for three-month stays to eligible applicants, further emphasizing the government's commitment to welcoming those who share its spiritual and moral outlook. This initiative is seen as a response to the perceived moral decline in the West, with officials asserting that Russia serves as a bastion of traditional values.
Critics and supporters alike are watching closely to see how this decree will influence migration patterns and Russia's international standing. While the government touts it as a humanitarian effort, the practical implications and the potential challenges of implementing such a policy remain to be seen.
