Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin stated that after the implementation of biometric data collection systems at airports, a significant portion of migrants attempting to enter Russia were turned back at the border. Over the course of a year, inspections revealed that nearly 45,000 foreign nationals were classified as "undesirable persons" for the country.
Biometrics: An Insurmountable Barrier
Since December of last year, all air traffic hubs in Moscow's aviation network have introduced systems for collecting fingerprints and photographs from foreign nationals. Sobyanin disclosed related statistics during his report to the Moscow City Duma:
- Coverage: A unique biometric database of 4.5 million migrants was formed over the year.
- Bans: The system quickly identifies individuals on "blacklists." As a result, nearly 10 percent of incoming individuals were denied entry into Russia.
- Criminal Apprehension: The data not only helps enforce entry bans but also aids in identifying wanted individuals. Those who committed crimes are detained at the border by law enforcement agencies.
DNA Sampling and Solving Cold Cases
The mayor also highlighted a new initiative at migration centers—the collection of DNA samples. According to Sobyanin, this method provides forensic experts with unprecedented capabilities.
"With the DNA samples collected from migrants, we are solving extremely grave and violent crimes that remained unsolved even a decade ago," said Sergey Sobyanin.
Testing Phase Continues
According to the Russian government’s plan, the biometric data collection process will not be limited to Moscow. Starting December 1, 2025, trials of this system have begun at all state border checkpoints across the country.
Key Dates:
- December 1, 2025: Nationwide trial launch.
- June 30, 2026: Conclusion of the pilot testing phase.
These measures are considered by the Russian government as the most effective way to strictly regulate migration flows and ensure public safety.
What challenges do you think the implementation of biometrics and DNA sampling at borders will bring for migrants?
Read “Zamin” on Telegram!
Users of Меҳмон are not allowed to comment this publication.
