Russia: Bill to Decriminalize Domestic Violence

https://www.hrw.org/news/2017/01/23/russia-bill-decriminalize-domestic-violence#

Update: On February 7, 2017, President Putin signed the bill into law.

The amendments would decriminalize a first offense of family violencethat does not cause serious harm requiring hospital treatment. Only violence that leads to serious injuries like broken bones or a concussion would remain criminalized. The law would apply to violence against any family member, including women and children. Abusers, if found guilty, would face a minimal fine, up to 15 days’ administrative arrest, or compulsory community service.