Russian Region Expands Pregnancy Allowance to Schoolgirls

Orjol follows federal directive to combat demographic decline, offering 100,000 rubles to pregnant students without age restrictions.

The Orjol region in western Russia now provides a 100,000-ruble pregnancy allowance to schoolgirls, extending a previous policy for students.
This initiative aligns with a federal directive encouraging regional governments to implement measures to boost birth rates.
Governor Andrey Klytschkow clarified that the policy follows Moscow's recommendations, with similar programs active in over 40 Russian regions.
Russia faces a declining population, with a fertility rate of 1.4 children per woman, prompting nationwide efforts to promote early motherhood.
Critics point to the policy's implications for women's rights, as officials emphasize prioritizing childbirth over education and careers.