With the New Year just around the corner, the Russian government is laying the groundwork for 2024's economic strategies, aiming to support various citizen groups during the festive season. Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin recently announced several key initiatives intended to bolster the economy during the holiday season. This year's New Year holiday spans from December 29, 2024, to January 8, 2025, and certain restrictions have been put in place to protect workers.
According to the Russian Labor Code, engaging workers during public holidays is prohibited, as specified by legal expert Vadim Vinogradov. "Согласно статье 113 Трудового кодекса России, привлекать работников к труду в праздничные дни запрещено," he noted, highlighting the rights of employees during this festive period.
Nonetheless, the legal framework does provide exceptions. Workers may be called upon during holidays without their consent only under emergency conditions, such as preventing accidents or catastrophes. Should unforeseen situations arise requiring urgent work, employees can be summoned, provided there is written consent and proper documentation to justify the necessity.
Specific vulnerable groups, such as minors, pregnant women, and individuals with disabilities, must not be called to work during holidays under any circumstance, even if they express willingness. Interestingly, creative professionals and athletes may also be required to work without their express consent, depending on collective agreements.
On the economic side, Mishustin emphasized the government's commitment to supporting Russian manufacturers and consumers. An allocation of over 18 billion rubles will be directed toward favorable auto crediting and leasing programs, aimed at not only bolstering the automobile industry but also easing the financial burden on citizens aiming to purchase domestic cars. "Дополнительно на реализацию программ автокредитования и лизинга будет выделено более 18 млрд рублей," stated Mishustin, indicating the government's proactive stance.
Discounts of up to 25% will be available to selected groups like medical personnel, teachers, people with disabilities, and participants of special military operations. For electric vehicle buyers, the savings leap to 35%. This initiative reflects the government's strategy to incentivize local production and stimulate consumer interest.
Significantly, these measures come at a time when experts anticipate rising car prices. According to Dmitry Matveev, CEO of "Мой Автопрокат," vehicle prices are projected to increase by 25 percent on average by 2025, due to factors such as rising recycling fees and fluctuates exchange rates. "На 2025 год цена автомобилей может вырасти в среднем на 25%," remarked Matveev, indicating the urgency of current support programs.
Beyond automotive initiatives, social housing efforts continue to progress, with reports from Petropavlovsk indicating the distribution of new apartments to families from vulnerable sectors. A total of 169 apartments have been secured for those needing housing assistance across North Kazakhstan, with 20 families receiving keys to their new homes recently. These efforts reflect the government's broader commitment to enhancing the living conditions of its citizens during challenging times.
The intersection of holiday regulations with economic support measures presents a compelling picture of the Russian government's approach as the New Year approaches. Through legislative clarity and proactive social policies, authorities aim to navigate the delicate balance between economic viability and workers' rights, reinforcing community bonds during the festive season.
Looking toward the horizon, citizens can expect these initiatives to impact their holiday experiences positively. With economic supports cleverly weaving through traditional holiday observances, the hope is for improved conditions for all, fostering optimism for the year to come.
