Protection against layoffs after resumption of employment

A federal law published on 25 April 2026 amends Article 179 of the Russian Labor Code in order to give an additional social guarantee to citizens who have served on special missions at a time of mobilization, martial law or war by granting them a privilege of retaining employment despite staff reductions. 

Such citizens will include employees who have resumed work under employment contracts which were previously suspended due to:

• Mobilization for military service
• Mobilization for service in the Russian National Guard
• Conclusion of a military service contract at a time of mobilization, martial law or war, or a contract to provide voluntary assistance in missions assigned to the Russian Armed Forces or the Russian National Guard

In the event of staff reductions, employers will be required to preferentially retain jobs for such employees provided that their productivity and qualification are on par with those of their peers.

The amendments will enter into force on 1 September 2026.