Russia is exploring measures to address its declining birth rate, including the creation of a “Ministry of Sex.” Proposed initiatives include turning off lights and internet to encourage intimacy, offering financial incentives for stay-at-home mothers, paying for first dates, and funding wedding nights to promote family growth. Regional incentives also offer financial rewards for childbirth.
Russia is considering the creation of a “Ministry of Sex” as part of its efforts to address the country’s declining birth rate. With an aging population and significant demographic challenges, the Russian government has been exploring various measures to reverse the trend, which has been exacerbated by the ongoing war in Ukraine. The Ministry of Sex, as proposed by Nina Ostanina, chairperson of the Russian parliament’s Family Protection Committee, aims to tackle these issues directly.
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Key Proposals to Boost Russia’s Birth Rate
In response to President Vladimir Putin’s call to halt the demographic crisis, several measures have been suggested, including incentives for parents, changes to social norms, and even governmental interference in private lives. Below are some of the key ideas being considered:
| Proposal | Description |
|---|---|
| Turn off Internet and Lights | Suggests turning off the internet and lights between 10 PM and 2 AM to encourage couples to engage in intimacy. |
| Incentives for Stay-at-Home Mothers | Proposes paying stay-at-home mothers, with the amount potentially contributing to their pension plans. |
| Pay for First Dates | Government to offer financial incentives (up to 5,000 roubles) for couples to go on their first dates. |
| Wedding Night Payment | Proposes funding wedding night stays in hotels (up to 26,300 roubles) to promote family growth. |
Regional Incentives for Births
In different regions of Russia, local governments have been introducing financial incentives for childbirth. For example, in Khabarovsk, female students aged 18 to 23 could receive up to £900 (roughly ₹97,311) upon giving birth. In Chelyabinsk, the compensation is even higher, with up to £8,500 (approximately ₹9,19,052) offered for the birth of a first child. These varying amounts reflect regional disparities in the push for population growth.
Controversial Initiatives and Surveys on Intimacy
In an effort to understand and influence personal behavior, authorities have even suggested that office workers take intimate questionnaires about their sex lives and menstruation. Women who refuse to participate are reportedly being asked to attend doctor’s appointments. These intrusive surveys include questions about sexual activity, contraception use, infertility, and past pregnancies.
These initiatives have sparked significant debate due to the invasive nature of the questions and concerns about privacy. Women who refuse to answer the surveys are reportedly being mandated to attend doctor’s appointments to discuss their reproductive health. Additionally, as part of this effort, the Russian government is offering free fertility tests to women, with reports indicating that over 20,000 women have already participated in the program.
Free Fertility Tests for Women in Moscow
Moscow has also introduced free fertility tests for women, with around 20,000 women already participating. This initiative is part of the broader strategy to monitor and increase Russia’s birth rate, targeting women’s reproductive health as a central focus of demographic policy.
Conclusion
Russia’s demographic challenges are severe, and the proposals being considered, including the controversial idea of a “Ministry of Sex,” reflect the government’s desperate measures to combat the decline in population. While these measures may raise eyebrows, they underscore the urgency with which the Russian government is seeking solutions to its pressing population crisis. Whether these unconventional strategies will succeed in reversing the demographic trends remains to be seen, but they highlight the high stakes in Russia’s fight to boost its birth rate and secure a sustainable future for the country.
