Cover Osteuropa 7/2014

In Osteuropa 7/2014

Managed Xenophobia
Migration and the National Question in Russia

Susanne Spahn


Deutsche Fassung

Abstract

Xenophobia is one of Russia’s most burning problems. Two-thirds of Russia’s citizens support the slogan “Russia for Russians”. The perception that Russia is “swamped” by migrants is widespread. And yet, there is a shortage of immigrants, who Russia urgently needs in order to modernise. Xenophobia prevents any kind of migration policy aimed at integration. Instead of granting immigrant workers legal status, the Kremlin leadership uses xenophobia to consolidate its power.

(Osteuropa 7/2014, pp. 55–68)