Occupied South Ossetia hopes to deepen integration with Russia through dual citizenship agreement

De facto Foreign Minister of occupied South Ossetia Akhsar Jioev and Russia’s Ambassador to Tskhinvali Marat Kulakhmetov have signed a protocol formalizing the exchange of ratification certificates for a dual citizenship agreement between the Russian Federation and the self-proclaimed republic.

The agreement, originally signed on September 20, 2021, allows citizens of both parties to obtain dual citizenship without renouncing their existing one. Such mechanisms are often used by Russia to solidify influence in breakaway regions.

“Our joint, determined, and fruitful work is yielding results,” Kulakhmetov stated. “We are nearing the final stage of this process and will soon begin implementing the agreement.”

Jioev emphasized that the agreement will significantly simplify access for South Ossetian citizens to Russian pensions and social benefits, highlighting the broader benefits and the role it plays in strengthening ties with Russia.

“Russian citizenship grants access to various social benefits – including healthcare, financial support, and education,” he said, adding that the number of people applying for Russian citizenship in South Ossetia continues to grow.

The agreement also regulates military service, stating that individuals who complete service in one country will be exempt from conscription in the other.

Murat Jioev, the de facto president’s envoy for post-conflict settlement, echoed these sentiments, stating that the agreement allows South Ossetians to integrate more deeply into Russian society, not only politically and civically but also socio-economically.

Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, he said, South Ossetians have consistently sought closer integration with Russia, with many already holding Russian citizenship. He expressed gratitude toward the Russian government for granting citizenship to a large portion of the population since the early 2000s.

“Now, the people of South Ossetia can feel Russian not only in spirit but also through their passports,” he concluded.