On December 18, the Spiritual Administration of Muslims of Russia issued a controversial decree that allows Muslim men to practice polygamy, despite it being at odds with Russia’s Family Code, which prohibits individuals from having multiple marriages simultaneously. The move has raised questions about its potential impact on both the legal framework and social norms in the country.
Under the new decree, Muslim men are permitted to enter into up to four marriages, provided they meet specific conditions. These include ensuring equal treatment for all wives, offering separate living arrangements, and dividing time and financial resources fairly. If these conditions are not met, men will be prohibited from entering into multiple marriages, except in cases where the wives have no objections.
The decision comes amid growing concerns in Russia over demographic challenges. The country has been grappling with a declining population, attributed to factors such as low birth rates, high mortality rates, and emigration. The government’s long-standing efforts to encourage larger families, including financial incentives and policies supporting parents, may have influenced this shift.
While the full decree has not been published, initial reports from Russian news agencies such as TASS and RIA Novosti have revealed the key elements of the policy. In addition to the conditions mentioned above, the decree allows polygamy in cases where a first wife is unable to conceive due to health reasons or when a man wants to provide social and financial support to multiple women.
The Russian Orthodox Church, which has supported the government’s policies on family growth, has yet to officially comment on the decree. However, the move may signal a growing tension between religious practices and the legal framework in the country, as well as a potential shift in Russia’s social fabric.
Despite the legal contradictions, the Russian government’s continued push to increase birth rates and promote larger families suggests a broader, long-term strategy to address its demographic concerns.
