Russian lawmakers propose tougher measures for illegal migrants

PanARMENIAN.Net - A group of LDPR deputies, led by Leonid Slutsky, has submitted a bill to the State Duma proposing that illegal stay in Russia be considered an aggravating factor in administrative offenses., RIA Novosti reports, citing a document obtained by it.

Earlier, the Russian government expressed support for this initiative, provided that it undergoes revisions.

"The bill proposes amending Article 4.3 of the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation by adding a new provision stating that committing an administrative offense while illegally residing in the country should be considered an aggravating factor. This will undoubtedly allow for stricter penalties when imposing administrative responsibility," the explanatory note states.

According to law enforcement agencies, around 739,000 illegal migrants are currently present in Russia. At present, illegal migrants face the same penalties for administrative violations as Russian citizens and legally residing foreigners.

Speaking to RIA Novosti, Slutsky emphasized that illegal stay should be considered an aggravating factor not only for criminal offenses but for all violations. He argued that failing to register upon entry to Russia demonstrates disregard for the law, making such individuals a potential risk to society.

"Illegal migrants commit crimes across various sectors: they create shadow markets, evade taxes, engage in illegal trade, forge documents, and traffic narcotics. Ultimately, they attack our citizens regardless of age or gender. We must eradicate illegal migration. Any illegal migrant is a potential criminal because they deliberately refused to enter Russia legally. Such individuals should not coexist with law-abiding citizens," the lawmaker asserted.

According to the bill's authors, this measure will help prevent offenses by foreign nationals, enhance public safety, and play a crucial role in combating illegal migration.