Russian MPs propose restricting the removal of children from families due to poverty
Russian MPs propose restricting the removal of children from families due to poverty
27.05.2026
Article published on the ASI website
A bill has been introduced in the State Duma clarifying the basis for removing children from their families and proposing a ban on adoption during disputes over parental rights.
This initiative proposes amendments to the Russian Federation’s Family Code and was published on 27 May on the Duma’s electronic website.
MPs are proposing that a family’s difficult financial situation cannot in itself be grounds for the removal of children if their parents are carrying out their responsibilities in good faith and, to the best of their ability, are providing an environment for their children’s development.
Those behind this proposal argue that, in practice, child welfare authorities will sometimes remove children due to homelessness, or in the aftermath of an emergency situation, although such circumstances should be seen as difficult life situations.
“Russia’s Supreme Court has clarified that a family’s dire financial situation alone is not a reason for removing children from their parents”, says the bill’s explanatory note.
MPs believe that in order to address these issues, local authorities and CSOs should be involved to help families access benefits and allowances, find work and utilise the social contract mechanism.
In addition, the proposal’s authors have suggested revising the approach to the concept of an “immediate threat to a child’s health”, pointing out that the existing wording could be interpreted too broadly and lead to contentious decisions being taken on removing children.
The bill also provides for the introduction of a temporary ban on the adoption of children under Article 77 of the Family Code (Removal of a child in the event of an immediate threat to a child’s life or health) for a period of up to one year, or until the conclusion of the legal proceedings.
According to the Parliamentary Gazette, the Federation’s Ministry of Justice feels that some of the proposals require further refinement, highlighting potential conflicts with the Russian Constitution and the provisions of the Family Code.
