Russia Bans Child Adoption by Gender-Reassigning Nations

The Russian State Duma has passed a bill banning the adoption of Russian children by citizens of countries that permit gender reassignment, aiming to protect children from potential dangers associated with such practices. Lawmakers, led by Duma Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin, emphasized the need to shield children from harmful Western policies, with 411 out of 450 MPs voting in favor of the legislation. The bill targets at least 15 countries, primarily in Europe, as well as Australia and Canada, and follows previous restrictions on adoptions to the U.S. due to its stance on LGBTQ+ issues. Additionally, the legislation includes fines for promoting 'childfree' ideologies, reflecting a broader push to enforce traditional values in Russia. This move aligns with recent actions by the Russian government to limit LGBTQ+ rights and counter perceived Western liberalism. The bill will now proceed to the Federation Council and, if approved, will be signed by President Putin.