Russian President Vladimir Putin has taken a bold and unconventional approach to address the country’s declining birth rate, urging Russians to engage in sexual activity during their work breaks. This initiative comes as Russia’s fertility rate hovers around 1.5 children per woman, well below the 2.1 rate needed for population stability.
Putin emphasized the significance of preserving the Russian population, stating that the fate of the nation depends on how many people there are. With over one million younger citizens emigrating due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Russia is facing a population decline that has prompted urgent action from the government.
Health minister Dr. Yevgeny Shestopalov has expressed support for the initiative, dismissing busy work schedules as a barrier to having children. He suggested that individuals can utilize their breaks for procreation, regardless of their workload.
As part of a broader effort to boost the birth rate, women in Moscow are now offered free fertility checks to assess their reproductive health. Additionally, initiatives such as financial incentives for first-time mothers in the Chelyabinsk region and increased restrictions on abortions and divorce fees aim to encourage larger families and higher birth rates.
Prominent figures like MP Tatyana Butskaya and politicians Anna Kuznetsova and Zhanna Ryabtseva have advocated for early childbearing and larger families as a national duty. The government’s measures to enhance the birth rate underscore the urgency of addressing population decline in Russia.
In addition to focusing on population growth, President Putin has ordered a significant expansion of the Russian military. Plans to increase the number of troops by 180,000 would elevate the total force to 2.38 million, with 1.5 million as active personnel. This move would position Russia’s army as the second largest in the world, trailing behind China.
The military expansion aligns with previous efforts to bolster national security amid ongoing conflicts and heavy losses. As Russia adapts to evolving global conditions, strengthening the military remains a strategic priority for the government.
In conclusion, President Putin’s unconventional approach to addressing the declining birth rate and expanding the military reflects the nation’s commitment to ensuring its long-term viability and security. While these measures may spark debate and controversy, they underscore the gravity of Russia’s demographic and defense challenges in the current geopolitical landscape.
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