Russian government measures to encourage childbirth
發佈日期: 2025-04-25 15:17
TVB News
Russia's birth rate fell to a 25-year low last year, prompting the government to implement measures to encourage childbirth, including financial incentives and mortgage benefits that some citizens find appealing.
These amateur models are well-prepared as they participate in a children's fashion show held in a Moscow shopping mall. The stores here cater to children, offering everything from clothing to toys for ages ranging from newborns to teenagers.
However, demand is decreasing with Russia's birth rate declining in recent years, hitting its lowest point in the past quarter-century in 2024. In response, the Russian government has taken action.
Starting this year, the one-off financial support for families having their first child has increased to 677,000 roubles, equivalent to about 60,000 Hong Kong dollars.
For families having a second child, if they haven't had previous support, they can receive 894,000 roubles, roughly 80,000 Hong Kong dollars. Families with children can also benefit from lower mortgage loan interest rates of 6 percent, compared to the standard rate.
Moscow Citizen Daria: "It's a very good start, maybe it's not enough because prices are higher every day.It's more stable to have big families here than anywhere else; now we feel more confident."
Moscow Citizen Yulia: "I would like to have three or more. Many girls want to have children, but the problem is with the tough living situation, apartments and so on, not big enough in size and the money issue."
According to data from 2022, Russian women gave birth to an average of 1.42 children. Several regions offer subsidies to pregnant university students of 100,000 roubles, equivalent to about 9,300 Hong Kong dollars.
One controversial suggestion from a lawmaker proposes extra marks awarded to pregnant students to incentivise childbirth.
Moscow Citizen Kate: "I don't think it's healthy to give more points to students, they're obviously not mature enough."
Companies are encouraged to offer flexible working hours to young families. Anna Molchanova, who runs a skincare company, noted that employees with young families are more loyal, motivated, and dedicated when given the flexibility to care for their families.
Notably, 70 percent of her workforce is female, with half of them being mothers, and 10 percent having at least three children. Last month, the Russian government decided to extend its strategy of action for family and demographic policy until 2036, which includes enhancing healthcare support and education in remote areas.
