Moscow: Russian President Vladimir Putin has invited citizens from Romania and 46 other nations to relocate to Russia, positioning it as a haven from the “neoliberal values” he claims are being imposed on their societies. According to the Kremlin, this initiative aligns with Russia’s commitment to defending “traditional moral principles”.
Defending Fundamental Human Rights
The Russian government argues that this move protects fundamental human rights for individuals who feel at odds with the values dominant in their own countries. On September 20, Russia published a list of nations where it believes these “neoliberal values” prevail, including most EU member states, the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
Notably absent from the list are countries like Hungary, Slovakia, Serbia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina, which Russia views as sharing similar moral and cultural values.
The initiative builds on a decree signed by Putin in August, allowing citizens from the listed nations to apply for residency in Russia if they feel adversely impacted by these values. Importantly, applicants are not required to speak Russian or possess knowledge of Russian culture or history.
Contrasting “Traditional Values” and “Destructive Ideologies”
Russia promotes the program as a safeguard for “fundamental human rights and freedoms” and a means to preserve “traditional spiritual and moral values”. Visa applications will be handled by Russian consulates and embassies, offering three-month entry visas to interested individuals.
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The Kremlin’s definition of “traditional values” includes the sanctity of life, human dignity, patriotism, and the prioritization of spiritual well-being over material concerns. In contrast, it condemns “destructive ideologies” associated with immorality, the rejection of national pride, and the promotion of non-traditional sexual relationships.
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Over recent years, Putin’s administration has enacted various laws to suppress civil society, independent media, and LGBTQ+ rights within Russia. Since the onset of the war in Ukraine, Russia has designated many Western nations, including all EU member states, as “hostile” countries.
