Kyrgyzstanis’ Motivations for Joining the War Zone in Ukraine: Balancing Freedom and Work
The ongoing war in Ukraine has led to an increasing need for human resources from Russia, with labor migrants being actively recruited into the ranks of the Wagner Private Military Company (Wagner PMC). Booklets are being distributed in migration centers, mosques, and through social media, with migrants being offered the chance to serve in the army. Since last year, migrants have also been recruited for restoration work in Ukrainian cities under the control of the Russian military. However, local media has reported at least 15 Kyrgyzstanis killed in the combat zone, with little information available on their involvement. The Foreign Affairs Ministry assures that negotiations are underway with the Russian side on the inadmissibility of involving Kyrgyzstanis in the war, citing voluntary agreement from the citizens to participate. Still, convicts reportedly engage voluntarily, with active recruitment going on in prisons. Relatives are appealing to authorities for information about their sons’ involvement, but the issue remains challenging. Meanwhile, labor migrants are crossing the border into Russia-controlled territories to work illegally, with some experiencing non-payment of wages. Human rights defenders and diplomats are working to support such migrants, but urge Kyrgyzstanis who are working in another country to avoid taking risks and to refuse offers to go to war and accept offers to work in dangerous regions.
