INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
Natalia Kondal, a Russian citizen with Ukrainian roots from the Ural Mountain city of Yekaterinburg, was forced to leave Russia shortly
after the start of the war against Kyiv amid intensified repression from the Kremlin.As she looked to get back on her feet in Europe, she
turned to Kovcheg, an organization that helps Russian citizens rebuild their lives abroad and supports anti-war activists still inside the
repression for their dissenting views or to avoid army conscription.Many left without a clear plan, often with little money or prospects,
and the fact that people were leaving Russia
Many Russians had little international experience, some had never been abroad
that, in addition to providing housing and document assistance, helps with language learning, hosts public talks and film screenings and
offers guidance for business projects.Most Russian emigres left either shortly after the war began in 2022 or later that year following the
They found refuge in Armenia, Georgia, Turkey, Kazakhstan and other countries across Europe.Many emigres grappled with a sense of isolation,
emotional challenges of displacement
to assist them, fostering civil society and addressing the anti-war movement, as well as discussing visa and residency issues for Russians
There has been a growing demand for communication between emigres, help with cultural adaptation, legal consultation and professional career
said Tatiana, who asked her name be changed for security reasons.Kovcheg founder Burakova said she understands the challenges of relocation
firsthand.Before landing in Tbilisi, she worked as a lawyer in Moscow, running an organization that provided legal assistance to people
facing political persecution
her organization frequently addresses the war and collaborates with projects assisting Ukrainian refugees, it is equally crucial to focus on
active part in this process
