Moscow: The Russian government is taking measures to address the declining population rate in the country by introducing additional benefits. Earlier, President Vladimir Putin had urged citizens to engage in sexual relations to combat the population decline. Following this, the government has rolled out more welfare initiatives aimed at increasing the population.
As part of its efforts to promote population growth, the Russian government is offering financial assistance for first childbirth and providing free fertility checks for women. Additionally, the government is preparing to tighten laws to prevent abortions. Employers are required to track and report their employees’ birth rates to the government, and reports suggest that divorce fees have also been increased.
The government’s push for population growth comes in response to the declining population in Russia. The current fertility rate in Russia is approximately 1.5 children per woman, which is below the 2.1 needed for population stability. Furthermore, due to the war in Ukraine, many young people have emigrated, and numerous individuals have died.
From January to June 2024, a total of 599,600 children were born in Russia, which is a decrease of 16,000 compared to the same period in 2023. This significant drop in population has prompted the government to take such measures. International media report Putin stating, “The protection of the Russian people is our highest priority. The fate of Russia will depend on how many of us there are.”
