Racism in Russia

Hi everyone,

We tend to hear a lot of stories about racism/ xenophobia in Russia.

Myth or reality ?

Do foreigners or people of certain races have to fear for their peace / safety ?
How different is it from any other European country?

Thanks for sharing.

Armand

It depends sometimes where you go. There is a chance of it happening if you are not white; stay away from nationalist rallies. But it is generally safe for everyone. Also if you are gay then you have a chance of getting attacked too, but that's a small chance also.

Obviously, you want to avoid the southern regions (specifically, the North Caucuses) where there is an Islamist insurgency.

Hi and thanks for your input Russian guy,

When you say 'attacked' is it verbal or physical ?
As a Russian do you consider them as isolated events or do you think they can be a real obstacle to expatriation projects ?

Thanks
Armand

There is no racism in Moscow, that's for sure... especially in the centreville.

Thanks for your 2 cents epolyakov,

So it's all about location it seems.

What other regions would you recommend?
What advices do you have for newcomers on what they should do if they are victims of any negative reactions?

Thanks
Armand

Are you looking for racist regions or what?

C'est très calme à Moscou actuellement. Quant aux autres régions, je n'en sais rien. Mais je crois qu'à Saint Petersbourg c'est aussi tranquille. On est devenu beacoup plus tolérant.

Not at all epolyakov :)

Just clearing out the true/ false perceptions and forum members might be thankful to have your local point of view.

Regards
Armand

Moscow is so much international nowadays... there are people from all over the world. Nobody is surprised to see black/white/asian people at 11pm in a metro tram. So it is OK.

As for gay people, it is OK as well. It is a little bit more dangerous i think especially if you look extravagant but i don't think it will cause probs.