Russia

Russia

The transition from a state-controlled to a market economy in Russia has been fraught with problems and challenges. Many parents have had to hold on to more than one job to keep their families afloat, often leaving children unsupervised. And, due to family break-ups, violence and poverty, large numbers of children have been placed in orphanages and state institutions.

A situation analysis of the post-Soviet era showed adolescents to be the most vulnerable and neglected social group. Many girls and boys face problems such as drug and sexual abuse, high-risk behaviours, sexually transmitted infections, especially HIV/AIDS, and early and out-of-wedlock pregnancies.

To address these issues, UNFPA and UNICEF joined forces with ministries, local and national NGOs, and health, education and social protection administrations in several territories of the Federation, launching the Adolescents' Health and Development project as part of the global initiative. Its overall objectives are to provide young people with information and skills for healthy lives, offer access to youth-friendly services and safe spaces, and mobilize public opinion through the media to support youth issues and needs.

More information and activities on this project >>