To address a persistent shortage of taxi drivers, some leaders and community advocates in Russia have proposed expanding employment opportunities for immigrants within the taxi industry. In a discussion with socialbites.ca, Irina Zaripova, a representative of the Public Council for Taxi Development, outlined this approach and its potential benefits for city mobility.
The proposal suggests that immigrants could be allowed to work in taxis under temporary work permits. To safeguard road safety, additional examinations administered by traffic authorities might be required for drivers who transition into this role. The aim is to ensure that newcomers meet local standards while expanding the pool of available drivers.
Officials note that the taxi market currently faces a significant driver shortfall, which drives up ride prices. History shows that during economic crises, such as 2008 and 2014, there was an influx of people entering the taxi trade. Today, with a steadier economy, taxi demand remains strong but the supply of drivers is limited. Advocates argue that permitting immigrants to work in taxis could alleviate price pressures and improve service availability, especially in urban areas.
At present, immigrants from countries where Russian is widely spoken, including Belarus, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan, are eligible to work in the taxi sector. The social activist also suggested that allowing drivers from Uzbekistan and other nearby CIS nations to join the workforce could further stabilize the industry and broaden coverage in underserved regions.
There is consideration of how such changes might affect the broader labor market. In regions affected by conflict operations, such as the ongoing military context, the demand for skilled drivers—like driver-mechanics—remains high. The argument is that migrants could contribute to keeping transportation options available and supporting the economy, with a view to revisiting these measures once regional conditions evolve and local workers resume full participation.
Meanwhile, measures contemplated by the Ministry of Internal Affairs include approaches that would regulate the stay of unauthorized migrants while restricting certain activities, such as driving privileges, money transfers, and personal ceremonies. These discussions continue alongside expectations of rising taxi prices in the near term, driven by shifts in supply and labor dynamics.
As the conversation evolves, the emphasis remains on balancing safety, economic stability, and the practical needs of urban transit. The goal is to create a framework that could attract a broader range of drivers without compromising standards, with careful assessment and ongoing review as circumstances change.