Moscow bans adoption of Russian children to countries that allow gender transition

Sun Nov 24 05:37:52 UTC 2024: ## Putin Signs Law Banning Adoption of Russian Children by Citizens of Countries Where Gender Transitioning is Legal

**Moscow, November 24, 2024** – Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed into law a bill prohibiting the adoption of Russian children by citizens of countries where gender transition is legal. The legislation, passed by both houses of parliament, is the latest in a series of measures targeting sexual minorities and promoting traditional values. The ban affects at least 15 countries, primarily in Europe, along with Australia, Argentina, and Canada. Adoption of Russian children by US citizens has been banned since 2012.

The Kremlin leader simultaneously approved a bill outlawing the dissemination of material discouraging childbirth, imposing fines of up to 5 million rubles ($50,000). Proponents argue this combats purported Western efforts to weaken Russia through population decline.

These actions reflect Putin’s broader push for “traditional values” as a counter to Western liberalism. This policy is coupled with ongoing efforts to suppress dissent and independent voices within Russia. The government has increasingly targeted NGOs and individuals deemed “foreign agents,” subjecting them to heightened scrutiny. These measures follow a previous ban on gender-affirming medical procedures and the declaration of the LGBTQ+ movement as extremist. Putin has repeatedly characterized the West as attempting to undermine Russia by promoting liberal ideologies.