Grozny, Russia
Chechnya could solve its population shortage by legalizing polygamy, the province’s Kremlin-installed leader, Ramzan Kadyrov, said this week. More than a decade of war has killed tens of thousands of Chechen men, mostly Muslims. The only way to restore the population, Kadyrov said, would be to adopt the Islamic system of marriage, in which each man may take up to four wives. Russian ultranationalist legislator Vladimir Zhirinovsky said polygamy was a terrific idea, even for non-Muslims. “We should welcome this initiative and apply it throughout Russia,” Zhirinovsky said, “because we have 10 million single women.”
Subscribe to The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.
Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
-
What are the different types of nuclear weapons?The Explainer Speculation mounts that post-war taboo on nuclear weapons could soon be shattered by use of 'battlefield' missiles
-
Floral afternoon teas to enjoy during the Chelsea Flower ShowThe Week Recommends These are the prettiest spots in the city to savour a traditional treat
-
How to plan a trip along the Mississippi RiverThe Week Recommends See this vital waterway from the Great River Road
