Spain has passed a law allowing those with especially painful periods to take paid “menstrual leave” from work, in a European first.
Key points
- The bill approved by Parliament on 16th February is part of a broader package on sexual and reproductive rights that includes allowing anyone 16 and over to get an abortion or freely change the gender on their ID card.
- The law gives the right to a three-day “menstrual” leave of absence – with the possibility of extending it to five days – for those with disabling periods, which can cause severe cramps, nausea, dizziness and even vomiting.
- Irene Montero, the nation’s equality minister, stated in front of the legislature that without these rights, women are not full citizens.
- The menstrual leave provision will be funded by the government.
Key concerns
- The debates around menstrual are often intense, with concern focused on whether such a policy can help or hinder women.
- Trade unions have been divided over the policy, which some fear could backfire and stigmatise women in the workplace.
- Some Socialists have voiced concern a menstrual leave could backfire against women by discouraging employers from hiring them.
- Worldwide, menstrual leave is currently offered only in a small number of countries including Japan, Taiwan, Indonesia, South Korea and Zambia.
