In a bold effort to address its declining population, the Russian government has announced plans to impose nightly power and internet outages starting at 10 PM. The move aims to encourage couples to spend more quality time together and increase the country’s birth rate. Alongside this, authorities will introduce government-sponsored dating programs to facilitate social interaction and family formation.
Russia has been facing a steady decline in its population due to low birth rates and high mortality rates. The government views the new policy as part of a broader demographic strategy to reverse these trends. By cutting electricity and internet access during late hours, officials hope to reduce distractions such as social media, streaming, and remote work, fostering more direct interaction among couples.
The nightly blackout will last from 10 PM until 6 AM, with essential services exempt from the restrictions. In parallel, the government plans to promote matchmaking events, subsidized social gatherings, and relationship counseling through state-sponsored programs designed to support couples and encourage childbearing.
Public reaction has been mixed. While some citizens welcome the government’s efforts to strengthen family values, others criticize the measures as intrusive and limiting personal freedoms. Experts warn that such interventions may not be sufficient to address the complex factors contributing to Russia’s demographic challenges, pointing to economic conditions, healthcare, and social policies as equally important.
Despite these concerns, officials remain optimistic that the combination of reduced digital distractions and active support for dating will help increase birth rates and stabilize Russia’s population in the long term.
The policy rollout is expected to begin in select regions later this year, with further evaluations planned to assess its impact on social behavior and demographics.
