Upper Middle Class Russians in Exile in Comparison to Other Emigrants

• In Event: Middle-Class Russians in Russia and Abroad: Political Attitudes, Migration Patterns, and Narratives of Success during the War

Abstract

Russia's invasion of Ukraine has precipitated a considerable wave of emigration, causing individuals to seek refuge worldwide. This study examines the unique experiences of Russian emigrants in the aftermath of the Russo-Ukrainian war, utilizing OutRush cross-sectional and panel survey data spanning over 100 countries. Our research places particular emphasis on the distinctions between upper and upper-middle class Russian emigrants and the broader emigrant population regarding emotions, integration, and trust. Through a comparative analysis, we unmask potential disparities in their emotional states, their capacity to integrate into host societies, and their levels of trust within these new environments. This study offers crucial insights into the diverse challenges faced by Russian emigrants, highlighting the socioeconomic factors that shape their experiences. Our findings contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted nature of displacement and adaptation in the context of the ongoing conflict.

Authors

• Veronica Kostenko, Tel Aviv U (Israel)

• Ivetta Sergeeva, European U Institute (Italy)

• Emil Kamalov, European U Institute (Italy)