ISIS-K Exploits Poverty and Discrimination to Recruit Tajik Migrant Workers in Russia

The ISIS-K terrorist group has been actively recruiting fighters from Tajikistan, taking advantage of the poverty and discrimination faced by Tajik migrant workers in Russia. Tajiks have been involved in recent terrorist attacks in Russia, Iran, and Turkey, with ISIS-K believed to have several thousand soldiers, more than half of whom are Tajiks.

Tajikistan, an increasingly authoritarian former Soviet republic, ranks among the world's poorest countries. This fuels discontent and drives millions of migrant laborers to seek better lives abroad, often in Russia. However, Tajik migrant workers in Russia face widespread discrimination, low wages, poor prospects, and isolation, making them vulnerable to recruitment by jihadi groups like ISIS-K.

Why this matters: The exploitation of vulnerable migrant workers by terrorist organizations poses a significant security threat not only to Russia but also to the broader region. Tackling the root causes of poverty and discrimination is essential in combating the spread of extremism and preventing further attacks.

ISIS-K has an extensive online media operation in multiple languages, including Russian, specifically targeting Tajik migrant workers in Russia. The group attempts to incite them against the Russian authorities while also criticizing the 30-year iron-fisted rule of Tajikistan's President Emomali Rahmon and his close ties with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Experts say there is no single formula for radicalization, but for some young Tajik migrants, personal grievances outweigh geopolitical considerations. "Tajiks have been involved in recent terrorist attacks in Russia, Iran, and Turkey, and ISIS-K is believed to have several thousand soldiers, with Tajiks constituting more than half," highlighting the scale of the problem.

The combination of poverty, discrimination, and isolation experienced by Tajik migrant workers in Russia creates a fertile ground for ISIS-K recruitment. Addressing these underlying issues and providing support and opportunities for migrant workers is essential in preventing further radicalization and mitigating the threat posed by terrorist groups like ISIS-K.

Key Takeaways

• ISIS-K actively recruits Tajik migrant workers in Russia, exploiting their poverty and discrimination.
• Tajiks have been involved in recent terrorist attacks in Russia, Iran, and Turkey.
• ISIS-K has over 3,000 soldiers, with Tajiks comprising more than half of its forces.
• Tajikistan's authoritarian rule and Tajik migrants' struggles in Russia fuel discontent and radicalization.
• Addressing poverty, discrimination, and isolation is crucial to combat extremism and prevent attacks.