Russia Bans Adoption by Citizens of Gender-Reassignment Countries

Russia's Federation Council has approved a bill banning the adoption of Russian children by citizens from countries that allow gender transitioning, following similar approval from the lower house. This legislation, awaiting President Vladimir Putin's signature, targets at least 15 countries, including many in Europe, Australia, Argentina, and Canada, with U.S. adoptions already prohibited since 2012. The bill is part of a broader effort to uphold traditional family values, responding to perceived threats from Western liberal ideologies. Lawmakers also passed measures that impose fines for promoting a child-free lifestyle, claiming it undermines Russia’s population growth and aligns with Western agendas. Putin has emphasized the importance of large families, even suggesting women consider having up to eight children. The legislation reflects Russia's ongoing crackdown on LGBTQ+ rights, previously banning gender-transition medical procedures and labeling the LGBTQ+ movement as extremist.