Kathrine Frich
Demographic decline has become a growing concern for governments around the world.
In some countries, falling birth rates are now seen as a national security issue.
In Russia, authorities appear to be taking increasingly direct steps to address the trend.
New recommendations
Russia’s Health Ministry is advising that women who say they do not want children be referred for psychological consultations.
According to reporting by TASS cited by WP, medical facilities have received a new questionnaire that includes questions about reproductive intentions.
The guidance reportedly aims to encourage women to “develop a positive attitude towards childbirth.”
Targeting women
While the questionnaire is distributed broadly, questions about having children are directed specifically at women.
Officials say the measures are part of a broader effort to reverse Russia’s declining birth rate.
The country recorded around 1.22 million births in 2024, a level similar to the late 1990s during a period of economic crisis.
Demographic pressure
Russian authorities have increasingly framed low birth rates as a national challenge.
State messaging has linked the issue to so-called “traditional values,” while also criticising what officials describe as Western influences promoting childlessness.
Previous efforts to boost population growth have included financial incentives and tighter restrictions on abortion access.
Long-term concerns
Despite these measures, projections suggest Russia’s population will continue to shrink.
Official data indicates the population could fall below 138.8 million by 2046.
Analysts say rising mortality rates and the impact of the war in Ukraine are also contributing factors.
Sources: The Moscow Times, TASS, WP.
