Valentina Matviyenko, the speaker of the Federation Council, has made a public appeal to shift societal norms regarding early parenthood, suggesting that having children immediately after reaching adulthood is both socially desirable and fashionable. This message is part of a larger effort by the Russian government to address the pressing demographic challenges facing the country. Declining birth rates and an aging population have become significant concerns, prompting a renewed focus on family planning and child-rearing policies.
The call for a cultural shift is seen as a strategic move to align public sentiment with government objectives. By promoting early parenthood as a norm, Matviyenko aims to encourage more Russians to consider having children as a societal expectation rather than a personal choice. This approach is believed to be critical in reversing the current demographic trends and ensuring the long-term health of the population. The government has already introduced various measures to support families, including financial incentives, improved childcare services, and enhanced parental leave policies, all of which are part of this comprehensive strategy.