Russia Moves to De-Criminalize Much of Family Violence

Russia has taken the first step to de-criminalize much of domestic violence.  The pending bill would de-criminalize acts of abuse that do not result in “serious injury” and would apply not only to intimate partners but to children.  Such matters will be treated administratively for first offenses.  

The bill was introduced by attorney and member of parliament Yelena Mizulina who in the past has 
sponsored anti-gay legislation and other legislation preserving “traditional” family norms.  Traditional, of course, should be interpreted as anti-human rights.  

While there is no central data base in Russia tracking domestic violence, one source estimates that domestic violence happens in 40% of Russian households with 36,000 women beaten daily by intimate partners.  12,000 Russian women die from domestic violence each year.  

Women in the US are experiencing more than a backlash.  Women report dramatically increased sexual harassment and sexual assaults post election. This is not a climate where women can expect legal protections to be either maintained or enforced.    The incoming U.S. government has expressed admiration for Russia.  Will this include promoting and mimicking the pending Russian anti-female legislation? You know how friends can influence friends.