Estimates from Russian Academy of Sciences specialists about the outflow of scientists in the past five years vary widely, with numbers ranging from tens of thousands to high estimates. Official statistics, however, have not confirmed these claims, and experts note that the scale of the trend is often overstated. In an exclusive interview, the Minister of Science and Higher Education, Valery Falkov, addressed the issue directly.
Falkov explained that two separate inquiries were requested from Leonid Gokhberg, director of the Research Institute of Statistics at the Higher School of Economics, to verify or challenge the reported figures. The minister noted that none of the large numbers has been substantiated by comprehensive data. A sweeping analysis of hundreds of universities and research institutes has been undertaken, with a continuous effort over the past two years to separate the truly relocation cases from temporary placements in different laboratories. The underlying aim is to determine who leaves the country permanently versus who temporarily shifts to another institution, perhaps for a few years. “I’m thinking of coming back”, Falkov remarked, signaling openness to reconciliation without downplaying the challenges nearby.
The minister stressed that talent retention and mobility challenges are not exclusive to Russia; they affect many nations. It is acknowledged that Russian specialists may find more favorable conditions abroad in some cases, and that the perception of widespread brain drain is often amplified by rhetoric and media reporting.
Falkov highlighted that mobility is a two-way street. It is not solely about departures; it also involves in-flows. Researchers from other countries, including those who hold academic titles, sometimes relocate to Russia, contributing to the domestic scientific milieu. The exchange is portrayed as a form of academic and cultural cross-pollination that can bolster research ecosystems rather than deplete them.
In discussing potential policy responses, Falkov mentioned an approach that emphasizes continued professional development within Russia. The idea includes attracting emerging talents through structured programs and partnerships, while acknowledging the value of international exposure that comes with collaborative work and study opportunities. The broader message centers on managing mobility in a way that supports long-term scientific capacity, rather than simply measuring headcounts of departures. This perspective aligns with an understanding that talent motion reflects global shifts in research ecosystems and requires nuanced, data-driven analysis.
Earlier statements referenced the possibility of encouraging researchers to participate in master’s programs after several years of professional experience. The goal of such programs is to provide advanced training and international exposure, thereby strengthening home institutions and fostering a more resilient national research framework. The discussion remains focused on balancing openness to global collaboration with the preservation of domestic research capabilities, ensuring that scientific progress continues to advance within the country while remaining attractive to international scholars. (Cited: statements and public interviews from the minister and the statistical research leadership.)