Russia Bans Adoptions to Nations Allowing Gender Change

The Russian parliament has approved a bill that prohibits the adoption of Russian children by citizens of countries where gender reassignment is legal, reinforcing a broader crackdown on LGBTI+ rights. This legislation, which received overwhelming support in the State Duma, is framed by lawmakers as a measure to protect children from what they describe as potentially dangerous conditions in NATO countries that support Ukraine against Russia. Duma Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin emphasized that the law aims to uphold 'traditional values' and safeguard childhood. This move follows last year's ban on legal or medical gender changes in Russia and aligns with President Vladimir Putin's calls to adhere to traditional values as a counter to Western liberalism. The bill must pass two more readings before reaching the upper house and then the president's approval. The legislation is part of a series of measures that have restricted the rights of sexual minorities in Russia.