A huge influx of Russians in Phuket is producing a backlash from locals, amid complaints of a booming Russian-only economy that covers everything from hair salons to taxi firms.

More than 400,000 Russians arrived on the Thai tourist island between January and July this year, according to authorities, double the number of visitors before Russia’s war against Ukraine.

Many have secured long stay-visas, buying properties and establishing businesses to escape economic turmoil and the possibility of being conscripted following Russian President Vladimir Putin’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

  • @[email protected]
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    fedilink
    310 months ago

    It’s easier to have ethics when you’re stably immigrated from 3 generations ago with the security that a roof over your head and a social net brings

    • @[email protected]
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      fedilink
      English
      310 months ago

      There’s definitely a lot of truth to “A man is only as good as his conditions allow him to be.” However, that’s not really a good excuse to emigrate to another country and not respect the cultural norms of where moving to.

    • tim-clark
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      fedilink
      110 months ago

      That is such a shit take on this. Because of adversity it justifies a lack of ethics? Seriously? This sentiment is a major part of social issues.