The head of a Moscow taxi drivers’ union, Alexander Makarov, argued for a set of measures aimed at aligning migrant workers with local rules and norms. In an interview with the Public News Service, he proposed stricter enforcement against unauthorized work, warning that taxi drivers operating without proper credentials jeopardize passenger safety. He also suggested that reforms in the taxi market could, over time, move the industry toward full state ownership. These ideas reflect ongoing discussions about governance, labor migration, and public transport in Russia.
Makarov emphasized that migrant taxi drivers should operate with official certification, work only under their own accounts, and demonstrate proficiency in the Russian language. He warned that implementing these requirements could create shortages in the driver pool, which in turn would push up the already elevated prices for ride services. The assertion highlights a common policy tension: improving regulatory compliance and public safety while maintaining affordable transportation options for citizens.
According to Makarov, higher costs for vehicles, maintenance, and fuel are likely to translate into a tighter labor market for drivers. This, he argued, would reduce the number of individuals willing to take on risky or unauthorized work, potentially lowering the risk profile for riders. While this might raise prices in the short term, the broader aim is to raise the quality and reliability of taxi service for the public.
The expert drew on the experience of the Soviet era, noting that if the trend spreads to other regions, the chance of taxis becoming fully state-owned could rise. He suggested that centralized ownership could, in his view, lead to consistent service standards and more predictable regulatory outcomes. Critics, however, point out that state ownership can bring inefficiencies and reduced market competition, so any shift would require careful planning and transparent implementation to avoid unintended consequences.
In the Tomsk region, authorities imposed a work ban on taxi drivers in July, targeting sectors such as hospitality, retail, and other service areas. Officials argued that such measures would bolster the economy by redirecting human resources toward sectors deemed essential for development and social well-being. Similar restrictions were later adopted in Krasnoyarsk, and the policy was mirrored in Kursk, Saratov, and Chelyabinsk regions. Advocates say these steps help ensure that workers in critical sectors are available to meet local needs, while opponents worry about labor shortages and the broader impact on mobility and cost of living.
Earlier, a Dagestan case drew attention to law-and-order considerations surrounding taxi services. A man faced punishment after requesting a passenger to disclose personal information in ways that violated police directives. The incident underscored ongoing concerns about safety, compliance with local regulations, and the responsible execution of regulatory powers by authorities. This event is often cited in broader discussions about balancing rider security with personal rights and privacy in urban transportation.
Overall, the current conversation centers on how Russia’s taxi sector can balance safety, efficiency, and affordability while integrating a diverse labor pool. Policymakers, industry representatives, and researchers continue to debate the appropriate mix of licensing, language requirements, and ownership structures. The aim remains to deliver reliable service, protect passengers, and maintain fair prices for everyday travel. The evolving policy landscape suggests that regional variations will persist as governments test different configurations, monitor outcomes, and adjust rules accordingly. News Service