Russian President Vladimir Putin has instructed the government to shape perceptions among people in other countries of the Russian Federation as a “democratic, federal, rule‑of‑law state” that guarantees equal rights and freedoms regardless of sex, race, nationality, language, origin, property status, religion, beliefs, or membership in public associations. The directive appears in the state national policy strategy through 2036, approved by Putin and published along with his corresponding decree on Tuesday, November 25. The document, which consists of six sections and 61 points, tells officials to strengthen the role of the “state‑forming” Russian people. In particular, it sets a requirement that events promoting Russian culture and traditions should account for at least 50 percent of all such initiatives. It also outlines efforts to promote the Russian language and culture abroad and to combat “Russophobia,” xenophobia and neo‑Nazism. As Novaya Gazeta Europe notes, the strategy sets specific benchmarks. By 2036, 95 percent of Russians should display “civic self‑consciousness,” according to the plan. Officials must also ensure that 85 percent of citizens positively assess interethnic relations, while the share of those who believe “serious conflicts on national grounds” could arise does not exceed 15 percent. In the occupied territories of Ukraine, residents are to take part in “nationwide events,” with a target reach of at least 2.5 million people. Russia’s Constitution declares the country a “democratic, federal, rule‑of‑law state” that guarantees equality of rights and freedoms for all citizens. In recent years, however, authorities have adopted a series of laws and regulations restricting the rights of various groups, including people with certain sexual orientations, political and religious views, as well as individuals labeled “foreign agents” or linked to organizations designated “undesirable” or “extremist.”

Pope Leo XIV told students not to use artificial intelligence for homework, saying that AI ‘won’t stand in authentic wonder before the beauty of God’s creation.’