Authors

Discussion

Decline in Students Studying Russian at Language Schools in London: Exploring Motivations and Tendencies

This article investigates the significant decline in students studying Russian at language schools in London since February 2022. Historically, individuals enrolled in Russian language programs for various reasons, including professional requirements (e.g., lawyers with Russian-speaking clients), family connections (Russian-speaking partner or spouse), tourism, or a fascination with a different culture and alphabet. However, recent trends suggest a notable decrease in Russian language enrolment (face-to-face and online), while simultaneously highlighting a potential shift of interest towards Ukrainian language and culture, particularly within the group interested in different cultures and alphabets.

By analysing data from language schools, conducting student interviews, and gathering teachers’ insights, this research provides a comprehensive understanding of the driving forces behind these changing enrolment patterns. The data in the chart belongs to International House London and includes the period before, during and after COVID-19 pandemic (from May 2019 to May 2025).

The article identifies several primary factors contributing to the decline in students studying Russian. Firstly, within the professional realm (group 1), the motivation for learning Russian remains relatively consistent, as lawyers and professionals with Russian-speaking clients still recognize the importance of the language for their work. Similarly, within the family context (group 2), individuals maintain their interest in learning Russian due to their relationships with Russian-speaking partners or spouses (not necessarily from Russia).

However, a significant decline is observed within the tourism segment (group 3) due to Russia's aggression towards Ukraine, which made the whole region not safe or attractive. The geopolitical tensions and negative perception of Russia's actions have resulted in a decrease in interest among individuals seeking to learn Russian for tourism purposes.

Interestingly, the study reveals a potential shift of interest towards Ukrainian language and culture within the group fascinated by different cultures and alphabets (group 4). As Ukraine gains increased global attention, individuals with an inclination for exploring diverse languages and cultures are turning their focus towards Ukrainian. This emerging trend suggests that some students who might have previously chosen to study Russian are now opting for Ukrainian language and cultural studies.

Beginning with the year of 2022 a different group of students could be recognised. People who work with/for charity organisations supporting Ukrainian refugees come to study Russian (group 5). They explain their intention to be able to communicate with Russian-speaking Ukrainians from the Eastern regions of the country, who