The phrase "regressive step" means going backward or moving in the wrong direction. It refers to an action or decision that undermines progress or improvement, rather than moving things forward. Full definition
The bilingualism requirement is therefore one of the most regressive steps a government can take if intending to promote other forms of diversity. (slaw.ca)
Most people that I've heard of making this regressive step have suffered some sort of brain damage either due to substance abuse or some sort of blunt trauma. (religion.blogs.cnn.com)
The «Nepali government [has] taken a regressive step as this law severely restricts our freedom of expression and our freedom of religion or belief,» said Tanka Subedi, chair of the national Religious Liberty Forum, to Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW). (christianitytoday.com)