Kommersant has reportedly studied the materials of the new adaptation course for migrants.  The Federal Agency for Ethnic Affairs (FAEA) of Russia has reportedly developed an adaptation course for labor migrants working in Russia.  The adaption course is a 70-minute lecture, details of which were reviewed by Kommersant.

The FAEA announced the completion of the course in September 2023. The course was piloted in Kaliningrad, Moscow oblasts, Perm and Krasnodar territories, and Yakutia.  Deputy Head of the Agency, Stanislav Bedkin, reported that the course successfully passed the testing phase in these areas.  Following the test, the agency made refinements to the program and sent the updated course to all regions.

"To date, most regions of the Russian Federation have developed their own regional components, reflecting the unique cultural and traditional aspects of each region," Bedkin added.

The course is reportedly divided into four sections: "Basics of Migration and Labor Legislation," "Basics of Informal Behavior in Russia," "Responsibility for Non-compliance with the Law," and "History of Relations Between Russia and Central Asian Countries."

1. Basics of migration and labor legislation

This section covers detailed information on the entry and stay of foreigners in Russia, including the rules for obtaining a work permit and concluding an employment contract. It also mentions the possibility of obtaining Russian citizenship through military service.

"Some things familiar to Russians may be new and unusual for you, and vice versa, familiar things to you may be unacceptable in Russia.  However, remember: you are not in your homeland, so you must behave as is customary in Russia," the course states in the "Basics of Informal Behavior in Russia" section.

2. Cultural and behavioral guidelines

The course emphasizes the importance of speaking Russian: "Russians are a multinational people, but everyone speaks Russian."  It addresses cultural nuances such as avoiding terms like "brother" or "sister" unless referring to relatives or close friends.  Migrants are advised against discussing passersby or whispering in their native languages in the presence of others.

The course underscores that Russia is a secular state and discourages public displays of religious practices, including prayers, sacrifices, and other rituals in public spaces.  It emphasizes respectful behavior at monuments commemorating the Great Patriotic War.

Guidelines on gender interactions are also provided.  "Women in Russia traditionally wear bright and revealing clothes, which is normal and not an invitation for acquaintance," the authors state.  "Women have the same rights as men, and they should be treated accordingly.  Do not physically touch unfamiliar women or men (touch, pinch, hug, grab their hands or clothes), as these actions may be seen as harassment."

3. Legal responsibilities and prohibitions

The third section focuses on penalties for violating Russian laws, especially migration regulations.  Migrants are warned against participating in extremist or terrorist activities and are advised to be cautious of familiar people making unusual requests.

The FAEA advises migrants to avoid attending unauthorized rallies and demonstrations, as these could lead to detentions, fines, and deportation.

4. History of relations between Russia and Central Asian countries

The final section covers the historical ties between Russia and Central Asian countries, highlighting the importance of these relationships.

The Federal Agency for Ethnic Affairs (FAEA) is a Russian federal agency tasked with nationality and ethnic policy.  It was formed through president’s decree on March 31, 2015 and is an independent agency that functions as part of the government of Russia.