Russia moves to ban childfree lifestyle in media crackdown
The lower house of the Russian parliament has passed a law prohibiting the promotion of a childfree lifestyle. The new legislation aims to protect traditional values and counteract the demographic crisis.
The State Duma, the lower house of the Russian parliament, has approved a law banning "childlessness propaganda" in media, films, and advertisements. According to Reuters, this initiative aims to combat "disrespect for motherhood" and protect "traditional spiritual values."
"We are adopting this draft law to protect our youth from useless ideologies," stated Nina Ostanina, the State Duma's family policy committee chairwoman. The new regulations introduce fines for promoting childlessness: up to 400,000 rubles (about CAD 5,700) for individuals, 800,000 rubles for officials, and 5 million rubles (over CAD 71,000) for legal entities.
In addition to fines, foreigners face arrest for up to 15 days and expulsion from Russia.
Combating the demographic crisis
The introduction of the law is the Kremlin's response to the deepening demographic crisis exacerbated by the Russian invasion of Ukraine. According to preliminary data from the Russian statistical agency Rosstat, in 2023, the fertility rate in Russia was 1.41 children per woman of reproductive age.
The Federation Council, the upper house of parliament, will discuss the law on November 20. It will be forwarded to President Vladimir Putin for signing upon potential approval. The new legislation is part of government efforts to promote traditional family values and counter negative demographic trends.
