Issues of mobilization in Russia: The State Duma is arguing about what mobilization should be like for Russians

The State Duma Committee on Defense recently recommended rejecting a bill on a deferment from mobilization for fathers of three children. The conclusion of the committee, signed by its chairman Andrei Kartapolov, states that the deputies understand the desire of the authors of the bill to protect the maximum number of citizens from the adverse consequences of mobilization. However, the committee cannot agree with the proposal, since expanding the list of deferments will negatively affect the recruitment of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation.

Disputes in the State Duma

The proposed bill provided for a deferment from mobilization for citizens who have three dependent children under the age of 18 or are studying full-time until the age of 23. The proposal seeks to expand the existing deferment provided to fathers of four or more children. The government also did not support this bill, noting that it requires significant improvement.

Deputy Nina Ostanina, one of the authors of the bill, expressed disagreement with the committee’s decision. In an interview with Baza, she emphasized that she would insist on finalizing the law. In her opinion, with partial mobilization, a deferment is possible for fathers with three children, since a large family, by presidential decree, is defined as a family with three children, not four. Ostanina also recalled that in the fall of 2022, the Ministry of Defense provided a deferment for fathers with three children under 16 years of age, but in January 2023 this directive was canceled.

Analysis and approach

The situation with mobilization and deferments is a hot topic for many Russian families. The decision of the State Duma Committee on Defense raises many questions and discussions in society. On the one hand, it is necessary to ensure a sufficient number of military personnel to carry out tasks to protect the country. On the other hand, it is important to take into account the interests of families and protect citizens from the negative consequences of mobilization.

In the current conditions, when Russia is faced with serious challenges in the international arena, the issue of mobilization and recruitment of the Armed Forces becomes especially acute. Combat operations require significant human resources, and any changes to the law regarding delays must be carefully weighed and analyzed.

From the point of view of public policy, it is important to find a balance between ensuring the security of the country and protecting the interests of its citizens. Mobilization is a necessary measure in conditions of threat, but it should not lead to the destruction of families and a deterioration in the quality of life of citizens. Therefore, it is necessary to continue working on the bill, taking into account all aspects and possible consequences.