Russia's new law puts governors in charge of children's summer camps
Vyacheslav Volodin, Speaker of the State Duma, has highlighted the vital role of summer camps in children’s development. A new law, effective from 3 March 2026, now places regional governors in direct charge of overseeing these programmes. Volodin stressed that quality summer breaks are essential for growth beyond the school year. The legislation strengthens the authority of regional commissions on children’s recreation, elevating their status to governor-level oversight. According to Volodin, summer camps help children build character, social skills, and teamwork—qualities that will serve them later in life.
Volodin argued that a schoolyard alone cannot provide the same benefits as a structured summer camp. He noted that camps improve physical health through sports and encourage face-to-face interaction, which gadgets often replace. The law also raises standards for these commissions, ensuring camps remain accessible and meet modern requirements. The Speaker emphasised that direct peer interaction at camps fosters communication skills and personal development. He described the new measures as a step to guarantee that every child has access to meaningful summer activities.
The law shifts responsibility for children’s summer programmes to regional governors. It aims to improve standards and ensure camps provide health, social, and developmental benefits. The changes took effect on 3 March 2026, with Volodin underscoring their long-term importance for young people.
