Russia Bans Childfree Propaganda Amid Demographic Concerns

Russia's lower house of parliament has unanimously passed legislation banning 'child-free propaganda,' reflecting Moscow's efforts to combat a demographic decline accentuated by its military actions in Ukraine. This bill, expected to be approved by the upper house and President Putin, targets materials promoting childlessness, imposing fines up to 5 million rubles for legal entities. Authorities argue the law protects the younger generation from negative media influences and supports 'traditional family values,' amid a declining birth rate reported at its lowest in 25 years. Critics suggest the legislation does not address underlying issues affecting birth rates and warn of potential misuse due to its vague language. This move is part of broader policies restricting non-traditional lifestyles and promoting conservative values, including recent bans on LGBTQ+ content and foreign adoptions from countries allowing gender transition. The legislation is presented as a defense against Western liberal ideologies Moscow deems harmful.