Russia’s New Brain Drain
Russia’s economy is growing and students from Moscow State University have good prospects. But it seems a lot still want to leave Russia.
Even those with good jobs already are keen to emigrate. Alexander Shishenin works for Mail.ru, Russia’s largest search engine.
“I would like to try living abroad because I don’t like how the political situation is developing. There is no party that represents the middle class. And I don’t like how the economic situation is developing because there’s no place outside of Moscow where you can possibly work for a normal salary.”
Recent polls suggest around 20% of Russians are considering leaving. The high cost of living, the poor quality of medical services and widespread corruption are often to blame.
The prospect of Vladimir Putin serving another term as President isn’t helping, either. Many fear under him that opportunities will further diminish. Experts say this latest “brain drain” isn’t about earning more money – it’s about the inability to find a place in Russian society.
Bottom line: Russia’s experiencing a new wave of emigration and “brain drain” as its best minds flee instability and stagnation, looking abroad for a breath of fresh air and career opportunities.
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