The opening statement of the Russian representative while talking at the Best Diplomats Turkiye Conference emphasizes that there is a huge gender gap in Russia, where there are more females than males.

The Russian speaker on the topic of ‘Women’s Rights Advocacy and Empowerment’ also mentioned that more than 400 occupations still forbid women from working.

In January 2023, Russia had a total population of 144.7 million, as per official data. The population of Russia fell by 38 thousand people (-0.03 percent), according to data, between 2022 and 2023.

Russia has a female population percentage of 53.6% and a male population percentage of 46.4%.

Russia has established regulations and legislation to support gender equality. Equal rights for men and women are guaranteed by the Russian Constitution, and there are particular laws that address problems like domestic abuse and job discrimination.

Russia’s maternity and parental leave laws are comparatively lenient, enabling women to take time from work to care for their children. These laws aid women in balancing their obligations to their families and careers.

Initiatives are being taken to promote women’s involvement in disciplines like STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) that have historically been dominated by men. There are many programs and scholarships available to boost women’s educational and professional opportunities.

A larger proportion of women may also be able to address problems with gender-based violence since they may speak out strongly as a group for their safety and rights. As the importance of women’s economic engagement increases, it may also result in a smaller gender wage gap.

It’s important to remember that gender disparities in the population can also pose problems, such as making it harder to find compatible partners for marriage and establishing households, which can have an impact on fertility rates and social dynamics.

The Russian representative suggests legislative modifications to deal with these problems. In particular, they demand a united global policy for tax-free sanitary products, which are regarded as a need, and for reserving certain employment for women.

There have been campaigns to lower or abolish taxes on sanitary items, sometimes known as the “tampon tax” or “pink tax,” in a number of countries, including certain European countries.

Menstrual hygiene items, including tampons, sanitary pads, and menstrual cups, are subject to a sales tax or value-added tax (VAT), which is referred to as the “tampon tax”. These essential products are subject to sales tax, or VAT, in many nations, states, or regions.

The delegate notes that obstacles to attaining gender equality exist in Russia, including domestic abuse and the enforcement of clothing codes.

A law that decriminalized various types of domestic abuse in Russia was passed in 2017, raising questions about the safety of victims. In 2020, the legislation was amended to strengthen victim protection and punish offenders.

Russia has set up emergency numbers and support services for victims of domestic abuse and violence. These platforms provide guidance, legal counsel, and aid in obtaining safety and protection.

In his closing remarks, the Russian speaker emphasized the importance of collective action in effecting positive change, emphasizing that they are speaking not only for Russia but also for everyone.