Moscow is recommending that women who do not desire children be referred to psychologists, a move that highlights the country’s deepening demographic crisis and the government’s increasing concern over declining birth rates.
The directive, issued by the Russian Ministry of Health, suggests doctors encourage women who express reluctance towards motherhood to seek psychological consultation “with the goal of forming a positive attitude towards maternity,” according to a document reviewed by the Associated Press. The move comes as Russia grapples with a significant population decline, a trend President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly identified as a threat to national survival.
The recommendation, approved in late February but only recently publicized by Russian media, applies to women aged 18 to 49. Doctors are also advised to offer annual reproductive health evaluations to women in this age group. While similar consultations are recommended for men of the same age, these are focused solely on physical health assessments, without the involvement of psychologists. La Provence reports that Putin has expressed concern over the falling birthrate since taking office 25 years ago.
The issue has become more acute since the start of the conflict in Ukraine in February 2022, which led to the mobilization of hundreds of thousands of young men. Putin warned in 2024 that Russia could face “extinction” if its birth rate does not increase. This latest directive underscores the Kremlin’s willingness to intervene in personal reproductive choices in an effort to address the demographic challenges.
The Russian government has previously implemented various programs aimed at boosting the birth rate, including financial incentives for young mothers. The BBC reports that some of these programs have faced criticism for potentially encouraging teenage pregnancies. The development underscores the lengths to which the Russian government is prepared to go to address its demographic concerns and could influence future social policies.
Recent reports also indicate that some regions are offering financial assistance to pregnant students, including those still in school, further illustrating the government’s efforts to incentivize childbirth. 24 Heures notes that the directive is a response to a critical situation.
