Russia to decriminalise domestic violence

President Vladimir Putin reportedly bows to pressure from Orthodox church and ultra-conservative MPs

President Vladimir Putin
(Image credit: SERGEI KARPUKHIN/AFP/Getty)

Russian politicians are set to pass new legislation that decriminalises all acts of domestic violence with the exception of rape and serious bodily harm.

Under the new law, which could be signed by the end of the week, beating a spouse or child will be punishable by a fine of less than £400, a nominal 15 days of "administrative arrest", or community service. Only broken bones, concussion or repeated offences will lead to criminal charges.

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