Russians Encouraged to Have Sex During Work Breaks to Combat Declining Birth Rate

Post by : Omar Nasser

Photo : AP

Russian President Vladimir Putin has recently proposed an unusual solution to Russia’s declining birth rate: encouraging citizens to engage in intimate activities during their work breaks. This suggestion comes as Russia grapples with a fertility rate of about 1.5 children per woman, significantly below the 2.1 rate required to maintain a stable population.

Stay informed with the latest news. Follow DXB News Network on WhatsApp Channel 

The crisis is compounded by the emigration of over a million Russians, mainly younger individuals, who have left the country due to the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. In response, Health Minister Dr. Yevgeny Shestopalov has suggested that people use their lunch and coffee breaks to focus on family expansion, arguing that busy work schedules should not deter them from procreation. He emphasized that the rapid passage of time makes it crucial to prioritize family life.

When questioned about how those with demanding work schedules could find time for family planning, Shestopalov recommended utilizing work breaks as an opportunity for family growth. This approach aligns with President Putin’s previous statements highlighting the preservation and growth of the Russian population as a national priority.

The current demographic crisis is marked by a significant decline in Russia’s birth rate, reaching its lowest point since 1999. In June 2024, the number of live births fell below 100,000. The number of births has decreased notably, with 16,000 fewer children born in the first half of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. This decline is further exacerbated by an 18% increase in deaths, with 49,000 more fatalities recorded in 2024 compared to the previous year, likely due to the ongoing war with Ukraine.

In an effort to address these issues, the Kremlin has introduced several measures aimed at increasing the birth rate. These include offering free fertility checks for women in Moscow, proposing that employers encourage their female employees to have children, and providing financial incentives for female students in the Chelyabinsk region to have their first child. Additionally, the government has implemented restrictions on abortion and increased divorce fees to discourage separation.

Politician Anna Kuznetsova has also advocated for early childbirth, suggesting that women should start having children at 19 or 20 to increase the likelihood of larger families. However, critics argue that these policies undermine individual autonomy, particularly for women, and may negatively impact Russia’s social fabric. The ongoing debate highlights the complex challenges of balancing state policies, demographic needs, and personal freedoms in addressing the nation’s population issues.