Economy on Suitcases: Why the Return of Migrants Does Not Solve Tajikistan's Problems

Ирэн Орлонская Exclusive
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Economy on Suitcases: Why the Return of Migrants Does Not Solve Tajikistan's Problems

According to the survey results, labor migration remains an important source of income for hundreds of thousands of households, and the return of migrants often occurs for forced reasons. The survey addresses a wide range of aspects, including the economic situation of migrants and their reintegration issues in Tajikistan.

The survey was conducted among citizens of Tajikistan who returned home after working abroad in 2025. The results confirm that Russia remains the main destination for labor migration, despite changes in legislation and increased administrative barriers for foreign workers.

Russia as the Main Migration Destination


The majority of surveyed migrants previously worked in the Russian Federation, highlighting Tajikistan's ongoing dependence on the Russian labor market. This indicates that changes in migration legislation and economic fluctuations do not affect this flow.
The socio-demographic profile of migrants remains stable: the majority are men of working age, while women constitute a significantly smaller share, reflecting the gender characteristics of migration flows.

Return Factors: From Season to Pressure


The report highlights several key reasons why migrants return to Tajikistan. These include the expiration of labor contracts, lack of stable employment, issues with documentation, as well as tightening migration control and uncertainty in working conditions.

Many migrants who returned home do not intend to leave migration permanently, viewing the possibility of re-emigration as a primary means of earning in the future.

Economic Instability After Return


The survey results indicate serious economic difficulties faced by returned migrants. Although some have certain savings, for most, this is insufficient to ensure long-term financial stability. Remittances directed towards meeting current needs—food, housing, medical expenses, and children's education—also play a significant role.

Upon returning, many migrants face a lack of job opportunities and low wages, making it difficult to apply the skills acquired abroad. The professional experience of migrants is often not recognized, complicating their integration into the domestic labor market.

Reintegration Issues Without Systemic Support


The lack of clear programs for recognizing qualifications and vocational training, as well as limited support for small businesses, significantly reduces migrants' chances of successful employment in the country. The reintegration process remains fragmented and insufficiently structured.

As a result, the return of migrants is often perceived as an intermediate stage rather than a step towards long-term social and economic integration.

Maintaining Structural Dependence


The survey reaffirms that labor migration to Russia is not just a social practice but the foundation of Tajikistan's economic life.

According to various estimates, in 2024–2025, there were between hundreds of thousands to more than 1.5 million citizens of Tajikistan in Russia, which constitutes a significant part of the country’s working-age population. Remittances from migrants have a tremendous impact on the economy, accounting for about 45% of Tajikistan's GDP in 2024, one of the highest rates in the world, with the total volume of remittances reaching nearly $5.8 billion. Despite this, official rhetoric and statistics often downplay the real role of labor migrants, failing to emphasize the degree of dependence on remittances as an important element of economic development, despite their critical significance for households and the state budget.
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