A Bill Has Been Introduced To Protect Confidentiality Of School Psychologists In Russia
In a significant move aimed at safeguarding the privacy of students, a bill has been introduced in the State Duma that would require school psychologists to maintain confidentiality regarding the information they receive from children during consultations. This initiative, spearheaded by deputies from the Altai Regional Legislative Assembly, seeks to amend existing laws to ensure that sensitive information shared by minors remains protected.
The current legislation, specifically Article 42 of the federal law "On Education in the Russian Federation", does not contain provisions that prohibit psychologists from disclosing information obtained from underage students during their sessions. According to a report by RIA Novosti, the authors of the bill argue that this legislative gap fails to classify such information as legally protected secrets.
To address this issue, the proposed amendment aims to supplement Article 42 with a provision stating that psychological, medical, and social assistance to children must be provided based on written consent from their parents or legal guardians, thereby reinforcing the principle of confidentiality. The explanatory note accompanying the bill emphasizes the importance of this change, asserting that it will enhance the implementation of the constitutional right to privacy for schoolchildren.
Furthermore, the authors believe that establishing clear confidentiality guidelines will foster greater trust between students and psychologists, ultimately leading to increased access to necessary psychological support. They contend that, by ensuring the confidentiality of their disclosures, students will feel more secure in seeking help when needed.
In the context of this legislative initiative, the authors highlight that the lack of confidentiality provisions has been a significant barrier to students seeking psychological assistance. By promoting a culture of trust and safety, the proposed law could encourage more students to reach out for help, knowing that their privacy will be respected.
As the bill progresses through the legislative process, it has garnered attention from various stakeholders, including educators, psychologists, and child advocacy groups. Many support the initiative, viewing it as a necessary step towards protecting the rights of minors and ensuring that their interactions with mental health professionals remain confidential.
In addition to the proposed changes regarding school psychologists, the Russian government is currently facing other pressing issues, including the ongoing decline of the ruble on the Forex market. As reported by Investing, the Russian currency has fallen by 2.19% against the dollar and by 2.81% against the euro, with the current exchange rate standing at 86.35 rubles per dollar and 95.17 rubles per euro.
While the focus remains on the proposed legislation for school psychologists, the economic situation adds another layer of complexity to the current landscape in Russia. With various challenges on the horizon, the introduction of this bill reflects a commitment to addressing the needs of vulnerable populations, particularly schoolchildren who often face mental health challenges.
The proposed law, if passed, could set a precedent for how psychological services are delivered in schools across the country. By prioritizing confidentiality, the government may pave the way for a more supportive environment for students seeking help. As discussions continue in the State Duma, the outcome of this initiative will be closely monitored by educators, parents, and mental health professionals alike.
In summary, this legislative proposal represents a crucial step towards enhancing the rights and protections for minors in Russia. By requiring school psychologists to uphold confidentiality, the bill aims to create a safer and more trusting atmosphere for students to seek the psychological assistance they need.
