Duma proposes criminal liability for first offence of domestic violence
The Russian State Duma proposes the introduction of criminal liability for first recorded cases of domestic violence
19.06.2026
Article published on the ASI website
This measure would enable the courts to hold perpetrators accountable for first recorded acts of violence against family members.
Ksenia Goryacheva, First Deputy Chair of the State Duma’s Science and Higher Education Committee, is proposing extending the scope of Article 116 (Battery) of the Russian Federation’s Criminal Code to cover cases of domestic violence. The relevant draft bill that would give effect to such a change has been sent to the Russian Government for review.
At present, Article 116 only applies to instances of assault related to hooliganism, acts motivated by hatred, or public displays of violence. Such offences are punishable by compulsory labour of up to 360 hours, correctional labour for a term of up to one year, arrest for up to six months, or forced labour, and restriction of liberty or imprisonment for up to two years.
The proposal introduces criminal liability for the first recorded case of assault against a close adult relative, a pregnant woman, a person in a vulnerable state, or financially or otherwise dependent on the perpetrator.
According to the bill’s author, the current system, which classifies first-time cases as an administrative offence, fails to take account of the particular vulnerability of domestic violence victims in cohabiting households.
