Russians Adapt In Exile
- Facing repression at home, Russians are forging new paths in Lithuania, embracing diverse professions.
- Mikhail Benyash, a well-known former lawyer adn activist, begins his day at 6:30 a.m.
- benyash describes his new occupation: I knock holes in the ceilings of apartment blocks in Vilnius, rip out rusty pipes with a huge wrench and replace them with...
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new Lives: Russian Émigrés Find Unexpected Careers in Lithuania
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Facing repression at home, Russians are forging new paths in Lithuania, embracing diverse professions.
From Lawyer to Lithuanian Plumber: A Fresh Start
Mikhail Benyash, a well-known former lawyer adn activist, begins his day at 6:30 a.m. in Lithuania. His routine involves donning a helmet and wielding a hammer, a stark contrast to his previous life.
benyash describes his new occupation: I knock holes in the ceilings of apartment blocks in Vilnius, rip out rusty pipes with a huge wrench and replace them with new plastic ones.
Benyash is among many Russian émigrés who opposed the invasion of Ukraine and sought refuge from increasing domestic repression. These individuals have had to reinvent themselves, leaving behind established careers in Russian media, NGOs, and activism.
Having briefly worked as a plumber during law school, Benyash quickly found employment in Vilnius.I was told it’s hard work, but at least the salaries are normal for Lithuania,
he stated, noting his monthly earnings of 3,000-3,500 euros.
He values his newfound freedom: What I do is real labor that supports me and my family. I can ride a bike through the forest, write nasty things on the Internet, and initiate lawsuits if I feel like it, but it’s not work — it’s a hobby.This is freedom.
Before fleeing Russia, Benyash defended protesters, activists, and contract soldiers who refused to participate in the invasion of Ukraine. He faced repeated police targeting and was even violently detained in 2018
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Russian Émigrés in Lithuania: Q&A on new Careers and Opportunities
Answering your questions about how Russian émigrés are rebuilding their lives in lithuania amidst new career paths.
Table of Contents
- What is driving Russian émigrés to seek new lives in Lithuania?
- who is Mikhail Benyash and what is his story?
- What types of careers are Russian émigrés pursuing in Lithuania?
- What are the typical salaries for thes new professions?
- How do émigrés perceive their newfound freedom in Lithuania?
- What challenges did Mikhail Benyash face in Russia?
- How does this emigration relate to Lithuania’s emigration history?
What is driving Russian émigrés to seek new lives in Lithuania?
Russian émigrés are primarily seeking refuge from increasing domestic repression and expressing opposition to the invasion of Ukraine. Many are leaving behind established careers to pursue safety and freedom in Lithuania.
Who is Mikhail Benyash and what is his story?
Mikhail Benyash is a well-known former lawyer and activist from Russia. Facing political pressure and disagreeing with the Russian government, he relocated to Lithuania. In Lithuania, he now works as a plumber, a significant change from his previous profession.
what types of careers are russian émigrés pursuing in Lithuania?
many Russian émigrés are embracing skilled trades and manual labor jobs in Lithuania, often a significant departure from their previous professions. Examples include:
- Plumbing
- Manufacturing