Reports indicate that some Russians are expressing frustration over public prayers by Central Asian Muslim immigrants, who argue that there aren’t enough mosques in Russian cities to meet their need for five daily prayers.
According to Radio Free Europe, videos recorded in Vladivostok in March and in Khabarovsk in October showed a Muslim immigrant bus driver kneeling in prayer before his vehicle. One video, filmed in October, caused significant irritation as it captured a long wait—over ten minutes—by passengers while the driver completed his prayers. The Ministry of Regional Transport later looked into the issue after receiving complaints, ultimately exonerating the driver by stating he was merely utilizing his scheduled break.
The bus driver from Vladivostok did receive a warning. Authorities suggested that he be more respectful of others’ cultural and religious feelings by seeking a more private location for his prayers.
Valery Fadeyev, who leads Russia’s Presidential Council for the Development of Civil Society and Human Rights, commented, “I’m not against Islamic prayers, but it seems odd when someone sets out a prayer mat in the subway or a bus driver stops to pray.”
During a discussion on immigration policy, Fadeev emphasized that Russia relies on a significant influx of workers from nations like Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. He noted that some immigrants may not be fully accustomed to urban life and might not understand the discomfort caused by public displays of prayer.
For many immigrants and their supporters, the grievances surrounding public prayers reflect a broader trend of rising mistrust and intolerance, which has become more evident since the war. The backdrop of growing tensions includes a recent mass shooting attributed to an ISIS faction, which resulted in 149 fatalities and over 600 injuries. Some Russian officials, including President Vladimir Putin, implicated the Ukrainian government in the incident.
Darrah, a Tajik taxi driver, shared his views with RFE, mentioning that the limited number of mosques is insufficient for the increasing Muslim population. He added that the strict rules governing Islamic prayers often force taxi and delivery drivers to seek out secluded locations for their rituals. Many Muslims now use apps and online resources to determine the precise times for their obligatory prayers based on Russia’s expansive geography.
While Darrah understands the intricate protocol of praying, he acknowledges that it could be seen as problematic. “It draws attention and can escalate negative feelings toward immigrants. I support religious freedom, but we shouldn’t exacerbate tensions by praying in spots that cause inconvenience to others.”
