CIVICUS discusses proposed restrictive legislation in Russia with Eva Levenberg, a lawyer with the independent human rights group OVD-Info.

Russia’s lower house of parliament recently passed a bill banning what it calls ‘child-free propaganda’ that promotes a ‘childless lifestyle’ in media, films and online content. The move is part of the government’s promotion of what it characterises as ‘traditional family values’ and efforts to raise Russia’s low birthrate to address demographic challenges exacerbated by the war on Ukraine. Civil society fears the move will further restrict freedom of expression and women’s rights while doing nothing to address the financial insecurity that makes many women choose not to have children. The bill is yet to be passed by parliament’s upper house and given presidential approval.

What’s ‘child-free propaganda’ and why does the Russian government want to ban it?

The proposed law effectively equates the choice to forgo childbearing with paedophilia, implying that both constitute a serious moral threat. The government sees this as an ideology that threatens traditional values and demographic stability in a context of population decline that has been exacerbated by the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. This demographic trend results from low birthrates, high mortality rates and emigration. To reverse it, the government has proposed to ban ‘child-free propaganda’.

The government has also introduced several measures to encourage higher birthrates, such as financial incentives for families with children, nationwide health checks for women of reproductive age and practical restrictions on access to abortion. These measures are in line with the government’s focus on the traditional family, which it sees as essential to the moral and cultural fabric of the nation.

At the same time, the government portrays itself as opposed to western liberal ‘ideologies’ such as individualism, feminism and LGBTQI+ rights, which it associates with the child-free movement. By labelling such ideas as harmful propaganda, the government seeks to eliminate them from public discourse and the media, further limiting dissent and consolidating its power.

What would be the consequences of being deemed to promote a ‘child-free lifestyle’?

Under the proposed law, people and organisations promoting a ‘child-free lifestyle’ could face severe consequences. Individuals could be fined between 50,000 and 400,000 roubles (approx. US$950 to US$3,800), and up to 800,000 roubles (approx. US$7,700) if they are public officials. Legal entities could be fined up to five million roubles (approx. US$48,200) or face administrative suspension for up to 90 days. Foreign nationals and stateless people could be deported.

Public accusations of promoting this lifestyle could result in severe reputational damage, social exclusion and professional ostracism. Teachers, journalists, influencers and other public figures who discuss or advocate for child-free lifestyles could lose their jobs or face professional bans. Online platforms or publications that share child-free content could also be blocked or removed.

How is civil society responding?

Civil society organisations, particularly those campaigning for women’s rights and press freedom, have strongly criticised the proposed ban. Women’s rights groups argue the law imposes a patriarchal family model and undermines women’s autonomy to choose whether to become mothers.

Independent media and journalists have also raised concerns, warning that the legislation could increase censorship, stifle discussion of alternative lifestyles and further erode freedom of expression. Journalists fear it will silence public debate, as fear of repercussions could deter people from expressing their views if they deviate from the state-approved narrative.

While there have been some protests, they have been quickly suppressed by law enforcement agencies. Physical demonstrations are very risky. As a result, much of the resistance has become informal and virtual. Activists and feminist groups are using social media to share posts, memes and videos criticising the law and its wider implications. However, these efforts face significant challenges, as platforms and independent media outlets risk being blocked or fined for publishing content that contradicts the government’s official narrative.

How can the international community support Russian civil society?

The international community can support Russian civil society by amplifying its voices, advocating for human rights and applying diplomatic pressure. Organisations such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch play a crucial role in documenting violations of women’s rights and freedom of expression, raising global awareness and condemning this proposed ban. Their efforts are helping to draw attention to the growing repression in Russia.

Diaspora communities – particularly Russian feminists and human rights defenders – can organise protests abroad to highlight these issues. Demonstrations in Europe and North America serve as powerful symbols of solidarity and a call to the international community. Support for these initiatives, including through funding, logistical support and media coverage, can amplify their impact.

Finally, the international community can impose targeted sanctions to hold Russian officials accountable for human rights abuses. These sanctions can reduce the government’s ability to silence dissent while promoting the protection of civil liberties worldwide.