What's happened
Russia faces a shortfall of at least 2.3 million workers, worsened by the Ukraine war. With Central Asian workers declining, Moscow is increasingly recruiting Indian workers, with permits surging from 5,000 in 2021 to nearly 72,000 last year, reflecting stronger ties and economic shifts.
What's behind the headline?
The shift to Indian labour highlights Russia's strategic pivot amid geopolitical and economic pressures. The dramatic increase in Indian work permits signals a significant realignment in Moscow's migration policy, driven by declining Central Asian migrants and a need for unskilled labour in sectors like manufacturing and agriculture. This move underscores Russia's reliance on India, facilitated by recent agreements and shared economic interests, notably Russian oil sales. However, U.S. pressure on India to curb Russian oil imports could threaten this relationship, potentially reducing Indian labour inflows. The reliance on Indian workers also exposes Russia to geopolitical risks, as it navigates Western sanctions and diplomatic tensions. This labour shift will likely accelerate Russia's economic dependence on India, shaping future migration and trade policies, and possibly altering the demographic composition of its workforce.
What the papers say
The articles from The Japan Times, The Independent, and Reuters all confirm Russia's increasing reliance on Indian workers due to a severe labour shortage. While The Independent emphasizes the surge in work permits and the strategic partnership between Moscow and New Delhi, Reuters highlights the decline in Central Asian migrants and the geopolitical context, including U.S. pressure on India regarding Russian oil. The Japan Times adds context about the journey of Indian workers and the economic sectors involved. Despite slight differences in focus, all sources agree on the core trend: Russia is turning to India to fill its labour gap, driven by geopolitical and economic factors, with potential future implications for international relations and domestic labour markets.
How we got here
Russia's labour shortage has intensified due to the strain of its ongoing war in Ukraine and a decline in traditional Central Asian migrant workers. Western sanctions and tougher migration laws have further reduced Central Asian arrivals, prompting Moscow to seek alternative sources, notably India, which has strengthened economic and diplomatic ties with Russia, including a deal to facilitate Indian workers' entry.
Go deeper
- How might U.S. sanctions impact Indian workers in Russia?
- What are the long-term implications of this shift for Russia's economy?
- Will Central Asian workers return if conditions improve?
Common question
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Why Is Russia Struggling with a Worker Shortage in 2026?
Russia is facing a significant labor shortage in 2026, driven by the ongoing Ukraine war and declining migration from Central Asia. To fill the gap, Moscow is increasingly turning to India for workers, marking a major shift in its labor market. But what exactly is causing this shortage, and what does it mean for Russia and the global economy? Below, we explore the key questions surrounding Russia's labor crisis and its international implications.
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What Are the Major Political Changes Happening in 2026?
2026 is shaping up to be a pivotal year in global politics, with significant shifts in democracy, regional stability, and international alliances. From the decline of democratic freedoms to regional disarmament efforts and changing labor dynamics, this year is marked by upheaval and transformation. Curious about what these changes mean for the world? Below, we explore the key questions and insights into the political landscape of 2026.
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