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Russia eyes recognizing those who speak Russian as "compatriots"

28 March 2022 18:36 (UTC +04:00)

The State Duma proposed to recognize as compatriots only those who speak Russian. Such a bill was introduced by Konstantin Zatulin, a member of United Russia, First Deputy Chairman of the Committee on CIS Affairs, Eurasian Integration, and Relations with Compatriots, APA reports citing the website of the Russian State Duma.

The MP considers the current concept of “compatriot” to be “unjustifiably broad”. The amendments will allow assigning such status only to persons “who speak Russian and belong to the peoples historically living on the territory of Russia”; and those, whose direct ancestors were born or lived in the territory of Russia”.

At the same time, the bill indicates that in the 30 years after the collapse of the USSR, a new generation of compatriots has grown-up who did not have citizenship of the Union. Therefore, they want to exclude the connection with the citizenship of the USSR from the concept.

The status of “compatriot” allows you to participate in the state program for resettlement in Russia. Such persons are compensated for the costs of moving and paperwork. Program participants can bring personal property into Russia in any amount without paying customs duties, taxes, and fees. They are also entitled to monthly and one-time allowances.

In addition, the status of “compatriot” simplifies the issuance of citizenship and entitles free education.