Politics February 9, 2017
A popular Russian newspaper just told women in abusive relationships to “be proud of their bruises.” Yes, this really happened.
The offensive suggestion came from an article in Komsomolskaya Pravda. It followed a new law signed by Russian President Vladimir Putin (i.e. President Trump’s BFF) to decriminalize domestic violence in the country.
“For years, women who have been smacked around by their husbands have found solace in the rather hypocritical proverb, ‘If he beats you, it means he loves you,’” wrote columnist Yaroslav Korobatov.
A horrific news article in a Russian paper claims women should be “proud of their bruises.” Image via Comedy Central
Korobatov went on to say that victims of domestic violence should be grateful, because a new “scientific study” proves women who are beaten are more likely to give birth to sons.
Of course that so-called study was conducted by controversial figure Satoshi Kanazawa, who has published a rash of offensive articles — such as 2005’s “Violent men have more sons” and 2008’s “Why do some battered women stay?”
Kanazawa is also the genius behind a blog post discussing why he believes “black women are less physically attractive.” Yeah this guy is a real gem.
But anyway let’s back to Pravda’s offensive column. As we mentioned it stems from Putin’s new law which reduces the assault of a relative (i.e. a wife) to a civil offense instead of a criminal one.
RELATED: Joe Biden Urges Men to End Violence Against Women (VIDEO)
The new penalties for battering a spouse are, in a word, ridiculous. The offense is now only punishable by a fine of less than $500, 15 days of ‘administrative arrest’, or community service.
And no criminal charges can even be brought unless the victim has suffered significant injuries, such as broken bones or concussion, or if there were repeated offenses.
Supporters of the new law apparently claim it’s designed to give parents greater freedom to discipline their children. They also favor it for reducing the ability of the state to meddle in their lives.
Of course, others are worried the new law will only serve to normalize abuse and deter victims from reporting it, and for good reason. A 2010 study found around 14,000 women die in Russia each year at the hands of their husband.
