Russia bringing back child labour? Moscow revives Soviet-era ideas as economy faces worker shortage

Is Russia facing a workforce emergency so severe that children may be pulled into the labour market? A controversial proposal backed by Russia’s Children’s Rights Commissioner has reignited debate over Soviet-style labour camps and lowering the working age. The move comes as Moscow battles a deepening labour shortage driven by wartime losses, emigration, and demographic decline. With economists warning that Russia needs 1.5 million more workers and businesses struggling to fill vacancies, the proposal has triggered fierce reactions. Is this a temporary fix or a sign of a growing wartime crisis?