Russian President Vladimir Putin touched down in Dushanbe this week, marking a pivotal moment as leaders from the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) convene to tackle escalating migration concerns impacting the region. With flows of labor migrants from Central Asia to Russia reaching unprecedented levels, the summit aims to bolster cooperation and craft coordinated responses to both humanitarian and security dimensions of these movements. Delegates are expected to focus on strengthening border management, enhancing information sharing, and expanding legal migration channels to prevent irregular border crossings.

Key agenda points include:

  • Implementing joint measures to curb undocumented migration
  • Enhancing support for migrant workers’ rights and welfare
  • Addressing socio-economic factors driving migration in member states
  • Exploring sustainable labor market integration strategies
Country Estimated Migrants to Russia Main Challenges
Tajikistan 1.5 million Visa restrictions, labor rights
Uzbekistan 1.2 million Border security, documentation
Kyrgyzstan 700,000 Illegal crossings, employment issues