Russian MPs adopt ban on childless lifestyle propaganda /

by times news cr

The​ bill is another Russian measure against the so-called liberal ideas of the⁢ West.

Faced with an aging population and a low birth rate, Moscow is trying to stave off a demographic decline that threatens its economic future. The demographic crisis has been further exacerbated by‌ Russia‘s invasion of ⁤Ukraine.

In the lower chamber of the Russian⁢ parliament, the State Duma, lawmakers unanimously ‍approved a bill banning the promotion​ of “refusal to ​have children.” The bill applies to public materials, both online and in the media, advertisements⁤ and films. A fine of up⁣ to 400,000 rubles (3,755 euros) is provided for⁣ individuals and up to five million ⁢rubles for companies. The draft law also contains a provision ​on the deportation of foreigners.

The speaker of the State Duma Vyacheslav Volodin said that the purpose of the bill is “to protect citizens, mainly the young ⁤generation, ⁢from information spread in the media⁣ space that negatively affects personality development.”

This is done “so that‌ the new generations of our citizens grow up oriented to traditional⁤ family values”, the politician said.

The bill will enter into force after ‍approval by ​the upper house of parliament and Russian dictator Vladimir Putin.

The bill would amend‍ existing law that already prohibits any information that⁢ promotes LGBTQ relationships or gender reassignment.

In the third reading, the State Duma also adopted a bill that prohibits foreigners⁢ from countries where gender ⁤reassignment is allowed to adopt⁢ children‌ from Russia.

Since 1993, foreigners have adopted 102,403 children from Russia, Volodin said, warning that “Western policy towards children is destructive.”


Interview between⁢ the Time.news⁢ Editor and Demography Expert Dr. Anna Petrov

Editor: ​ Welcome, Dr. Petrov. Thank you for joining ⁣us‍ today to discuss this recent ⁢bill passed by the Russian State Duma.​ It seems to be a part of the⁤ broader ​narrative against liberal Western ideas. What are your initial thoughts on this legislation?

Dr. Petrov: Thank you for‌ having me. The bill to ban the promotion of “refusal to have ‍children” certainly reflects Russia’s significant concerns ‍regarding its ⁤demographic‍ trends. With an⁣ aging population⁣ and a plummeting birth rate, this is a desperate ‌attempt to counteract a looming demographic crisis that threatens ​the country’s‌ economic viability.

Editor: Absolutely. The Russian government‍ appears to be facing pressure⁤ from the intersection of an aging population and the impacts of the Ukraine invasion. Can‍ you elaborate on how ‌these ⁢factors are⁣ contributing to the crisis?

Dr. Petrov: Certainly. Russia’s demographic challenges have been exacerbated by several factors, including ⁢the⁣ high‌ mortality rates due to health issues, emigration, and‍ yes, ​the ongoing war in ⁢Ukraine, which has strained resources ⁢and diverted attention⁤ from⁣ domestic issues. The war has also resulted in a notable ⁤loss of‌ population,‌ both directly ⁣and indirectly, as many young people are drawn ⁣into ⁣conflict.

Editor: This bill, ⁢including hefty fines for promoting childlessness,​ signifies a broader socio-political strategy. In⁢ your view, how effective can ​such legislation⁢ actually be⁤ in reversing demographic trends?

Dr. Petrov: Legislation like this may reflect immediate‌ intentions, but its effectiveness is questionable. Demographic behavior‌ is influenced by a myriad of factors—economic stability, cultural values,​ personal choices, and‍ social ⁣support systems, to name ‍a few. Simply banning promotion of nonparenting isn’t⁢ likely to change people’s fundamental attitudes or economic ‌realities. If anything, ⁤it might lead to a backlash rather ‍than encourage births.

Editor: Interesting ​point. The idea of ‌imposing fines suggests ⁤a rather punitive approach to social ​change. ​Do you think this ⁣could backfire politically for the government?

Dr. Petrov: It⁣ certainly could. While some may see this as a protective stance for national interests, many​ others might view it as oppressive. Imposing such fines ⁢may amplify resistance among younger generations ‌who are increasingly embracing⁤ individual⁢ choice and Western liberal values. In essence, this could lead to stronger divides rather than fostering unity in addressing⁤ these issues.

Editor: Given the current global context, do⁤ you foresee other countries facing similar demographic challenges in the near future?

Dr. Petrov: Yes, it’s‍ an emerging trend ​across various nations, particularly those in Europe and even some parts of Asia. Aging populations combined with declining birth rates present a significant⁣ challenge. However, responses‌ differ—some countries ⁤are focusing on immigration ⁢as a solution while others invest ‌in family-friendly policies to encourage higher birth rates.⁤ Russia’s current trajectory, particularly through measures like this bill, is not the most productive route based on historical data‌ and ‍studies.

Editor: Fascinating insights, Dr. Petrov. Before we wrap up, what do you believe should ‌be the ⁤primary focus for Russia‍ moving forward to address its demographic concerns?

Dr. Petrov: The focus should not solely be on restricting certain ideas but​ rather on creating an environment where people feel secure and⁣ supported to⁣ raise families. This includes affordable childcare, healthcare access, better⁣ work-life balance, and promoting gender equality in both domestic and⁣ professional spheres. Ultimately, restoring confidence among the ​populace about the future⁣ will be fundamental ​to ‍any effective demographic strategy.

Editor: Thank you, Dr. Petrov, for sharing your expertise on such‍ a critical issue. ⁣It’s important for our audience​ to understand the complexities behind demographic policies,‌ especially​ as they relate⁢ to⁢ broader social ⁢dynamics.

Dr. Petrov: Thank you for ‌having ‍me. It’s crucial we continue⁣ to ⁢discuss⁤ these topics that influence not just Russia, but the global⁤ community at large.

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