Russia's State Duma has taken a significant step towards passing a new bill that aims to combat the spread of information discouraging people from having children. The legislation, which still requires two more readings and approval from the upper house and President Vladimir Putin, would make it illegal to promote voluntary childlessness.
The proponents of the bill argue that advocating against having children is part of a larger Western effort to weaken Russia by encouraging a decline in population. They view it as a form of professional propaganda and a tactic in a hybrid war against the country.
If approved, the bill would impose fines of up to 5 million rubles ($50,000) on individuals spreading such information. Supporters of the measure believe that it is crucial to cleanse the information space of what they consider to be destructive content and to create a positive environment for families.
Lawmakers unanimously voted in favor of the bill, with the State Duma speaker emphasizing that it is part of the government's strategy to protect traditional values. Critics have raised concerns about potential violations of freedom of expression, but officials maintain that the legislation is aimed at safeguarding children, families, and national values.
This move is in line with President Putin's recent calls to uphold traditional values and promote large families. The Russian leader has been vocal about the need to address the country's declining population and has encouraged women to have multiple children.
Since the conflict in Ukraine began, Putin has intensified his rhetoric against the West, accusing it of exporting liberal ideologies and undermining Russia. In recent years, Russia has implemented laws restricting LGBTQ rights, including a ban on distributing LGBTQ information and labeling the international LGBTQ movement as extremist.
Notably, a bill prohibiting the adoption of Russian children by citizens of countries where gender transitioning is legal has also received preliminary approval from Russian lawmakers. These legislative actions reflect the government's efforts to reinforce traditional values and combat what it perceives as threats to the country's social fabric.
