It is impossible to improve demographics in Russia only with the help of money – Kommersant

President Vladimir Putin, during a speech at the 25th Congress of the World Russian People’s Council (VRNS), said that it is impossible to improve the demographic situation in Russia only with the help of money, social payments and preferential programs. The President believes that in order to overcome demographic challenges, a person’s “strong moral support” and “life guidelines” are necessary.

He also noted that having many children should become “a new way of life for all the peoples of Russia.” According to him, the family is not just “the basis of the state,” but a “spiritual phenomenon” and “a source of morality.” “Support for family, motherhood, and childhood should cover the work of all areas of government without exception, our economic, social, infrastructure policy, education and health care,” the president added. The meeting is broadcast by a TV channel “Saved”.

According to the UN, Russia’s population could drop to 112 million people in the next 100 years. Russian scientists believe that a critical decline in the Russian population can be avoided by raising the total fertility rate from the current 1.50 children per family to 2.15. According to VTsIOM, Russians are not against having many children – 39% of Russian women aged 18 to 45 want to have two children, 28% – three children, 9% – four or more children.

Read more in the Kommersant article. “Two to Five”.