Russian bill decriminalizing some domestic violence sent to Putin
| Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
| Publication Date | 1 February 2017 |
| Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Russian bill decriminalizing some domestic violence sent to Putin, 1 February 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/5975a4d04.html [accessed 21 May 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
February 01, 2017
The bill now must be signed by President Vladimir Putin, who has expressed his support for the initiative.
The upper chamber of Russia's parliament has passed a bill that would decriminalize some forms of domestic violence.
The Federation Council on February 1 passed the bill, which would categorize as administrative offenses cases of domestic violence that result in pain but not bodily harm.
Dubbed the "slapping law," the bill would affect parents who strike their children and people who strike their spouses or partners. In the event of any danger to the victim's health or in the case of repeat offenses, the perpetrator would face criminal charges.
Under the new measure, first-time administrative offenses would be punishable by a fine of up to 30,000 rubles ($500), detention up to 15 days, or 120 hours of community service.
Supporters of the measure say it is intended to prevent unwarranted interference by the state in domestic matters.
The lower chamber of parliament, the State Duma, adopted the measure last week.
It now must be signed by President Vladimir Putin, who has expressed his support for the initiative.
With reporting by TASS
Link to original story on RFE/RL website
