Decentralisation, Citizenship and Mobility: Residency Restrictions and Skilled Migration in Moscow
Title:
Decentralisation, Citizenship and Mobility: Residency Restrictions and Skilled Migration in Moscow
Author:
Blitz, Brad K.
Appeared in:
Citizenship studies
Paging:
Volume 11 (2007) nr. 4 pages 383-404
Year:
2007-09
Contents:
This study explores the effects of political restructuring on citizenship in contemporary Russia by examining the impact of decentralisation on freedom of movement in Moscow. It seeks to explain why, in spite of the change of regime and delegation of authority from federal to regional government, there has been a marked continuity in the practice of residency controls that restrict freedom of movement. It investigates the conditions for skilled migrants who wish to settle in Moscow and examines how the deconcentration of authority over residency policy has produced new inequalities such as access to essential services, employment, and the property market which have effectively created new classes of citizenship based on differentiated options for mobility. The range of options is determined by geographical location, place of residence, occupational status, and political engagement, and is illustrated by three types of citizenship: (1) full Muscovite status; (2) conditional subjects; and (3) resident participants. The empirical basis for this study draws upon data gathered during field visits to Moscow in January 2005 and winter 2006 when interviews (n = 36) and focus groups (four) were conducted with migrants from other regions and employers.
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