Russia’s “Traditional Values” and Domestic Violence

<br>This research, authored by Olimpiada Usanova, analyzes Russia’s retreat from protecting women against domestic violence, focusing on the ideological framework of Vladimir Putin’s “independent path” and “traditional values.” The study highlights how, unlike most countries, Russia has rolled back previously established protections for women, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, when domestic violence cases surged but state response remained inadequate.The paper traces the evolution of women’s rights in Russia, from the Soviet era’s progress in education and political participation to the post-Soviet decline in women’s representation and the resurgence of patriarchal attitudes. It details the impact of recent legislation, such as the 2012 “foreign agent” law and the 2017 decriminalization of certain forms of domestic violence, which have weakened support systems for victims and fostered a climate of impunity for abusers.The research also examines the tension between Russia’s international obligations and its domestic policies, noting that the government uses international pressure as justification to reinforce its narrative of defending “traditional values” against Western liberalism. Despite ongoing advocacy, comprehensive domestic violence legislation has yet to be adopted in Russia