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Putin Signs Law Banning Adoption by Citizens of Countries Allowing Gender Transition

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed into law a measure banning adoption by citizens of countries where gender transitioning is legal, marking another step in his campaign against what he describes as the West's "satanic values." The law, approved over the weekend, targets adoption from at least 15 nations, including many in Europe, as well as Australia, Argentina, and Canada.


Image of a hildren symbolizing the impact of the adoption ban.
Putin's new adoption law targets nations allowing gender transitioning, marking another step in Russia’s rejection of Western liberalism. Photo: Unsplash

A Push for "Traditional Values"

The adoption ban aligns with broader efforts by the Kremlin to enforce traditionalist policies while rejecting Western liberalism. Speaker of the Russian lower house, Vyacheslav Volodin, stated in July that the legislation was necessary to prevent "dangers" such as exposure to gender reassignment practices in adopting countries. This comes as part of a wider narrative suggesting that Western cultural values threaten Russia's social stability and demographic health.

Additionally, Putin approved a related bill prohibiting the promotion of remaining child-free. Proponents argue that encouraging a decline in childbirth is part of a Western effort to weaken Russia. Fines for violating this law could reach up to 5 million rubles (€47,400).


Growing Restrictions on LGBTQ+ and Gender Rights

In recent years, Russia has intensified its crackdown on LGBTQ+ rights. In 2022, the country banned gender-transition procedures, and the Supreme Court labeled the LGBTQ+ "movement" as extremist. Another law prohibits LGBTQ+ information distribution to individuals of any age, expanding a 2013 restriction previously limited to minors.

These measures coincide with Putin's public calls for larger families and an emphasis on traditional gender roles. In a bid to counter population decline, Putin has urged women to have up to eight children, framing large families as a patriotic duty.

Impact on International Adoptions

The ban significantly reduces international adoption opportunities for Russian children, further isolating the country from global norms. The United States, already banned from adopting Russian children since 2012, is now joined by other nations with progressive gender-transition policies.



Backdrop of Intensified Control

This legislative crackdown forms part of a broader strategy to curb perceived Western influence amid declining relations since the invasion of Ukraine. Putin frequently accuses the West of undermining Russia through liberal ideologies, characterizing these as morally corrupt and detrimental to Russian society.

Russia's government has also expanded its "foreign agents" law, targeting critics, journalists, and activists, and increasing scrutiny of nongovernmental organizations and independent voices.


Global Perspective on Gender Transition and Adoption

Access to gender-affirming medical care varies widely across Europe. While some countries like Sweden, Spain, and Portugal ensure access with minimal barriers, others impose stricter or partial restrictions. In Russia, such care is now completely outlawed, reflecting its divergence from international trends.

The new adoption law reinforces Putin’s vision of a culturally and politically insulated Russia, further isolating the country on issues of human rights and social policy.


Source: Euronews

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