Russia bars school access for migrant children without Russian proficiency

The Russian State Duma has approved in the first reading a draft law prohibiting children of migrants who fail the Russian language proficiency test from being admitted to Russian schools, according to a report by Interfax.

The draft law stipulates that the procedure for conducting these tests will be established by the Ministry of Education.

"Children who do not pass tests demonstrating sufficient knowledge of the Russian language to master primary, basic, and secondary general education programs will not be permitted to enroll in these education programs," the draft reads.

Moreover, when admitting students to schools and other educational institutions, authorities will verify "the legality of the child’s presence in Russia."

At the start of the current academic year, State Duma Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin noted that 41% of migrant children faced difficulties with Russian language proficiency. He argued that fluency in Russian is essential for receiving quality education and effectively engaging with the school curriculum.

"Without adequate language skills, the process of learning and social adaptation becomes exceedingly challenging for the child, while also creating difficulties for their classmates and teachers. <…> Those who come to our country must know the Russian language, respect Russian culture and history, and strictly follow Russian laws," Volodin emphasized.

The Russian government has intensified its restrictions on migrants following a terrorist attack at the Crocus City Hall concert venue in March 2024, for which Tajik migrants were blamed. In October, five draft laws were introduced in the State Duma to strengthen penalties for illegal migration. Additionally, a new special regime for the deportation of migrants has been implemented.