Catalonia Provides Free Reusable Menstrual Products to Women and Girls – Sky Bulletin
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In an effort to promote menstrual equity, Catalonia, a region in Spain, has introduced a trailblazing health program that provides no-cost reusable menstruation products to its female residents.
The initiative reaches approximately 2.5 million women and girls across northeastern Spain, granting access to a menstrual cup, a pair of period underwear, and two sets of fabric menstrual pads available at local pharmacies without charge.
Emphasizing the importance of menstrual equity, and in response to findings that showed almost a quarter of women had reused disposable hygiene products due to financial restraints, the Catalan government launched the campaign named “My period, my rules.”
According to Tània Verge, the Catalan minister for equality and feminism, this program resonates with the long-standing global feminist movement striving for sexual and reproductive rights. She asserts that the initiative supports the creation of a more equitable society.
Aside from empowering women, the initiative also seeks to address environmental concerns, tackling the roughly 9,000 tons of waste generated by single-use sanitary products in Catalonia.
The public health care system of Catalonia, which services the entire populace, is responsible for procuring the reusable products, while over 3,000 local private pharmacies facilitate their distribution. The regional government has allocated a budget of 8.5 million euros (approximately $9.2 million) for this program.
This development follows Spain’s national legislation that grants women suffering painful menstruation the right to paid medical leave. This measure precedes the International Women’s Day observed on March 8, when Spain traditionally witnesses some of the largest global demonstrations advocating for women’s rights.
FAQ
Who is eligible for the free reusable menstrual products?
Any woman or girl residing in the Catalonia region of Spain is eligible to receive the products.
What products are offered through this initiative?
The program provides a menstrual cup, a pair of period underwear, and two sets of fabric menstrual pads.
Where can eligible individuals obtain these menstrual products?
They can be picked up at any of the 3,000-plus private pharmacies across Catalonia.
How is this program funded?
The Catalan government has dedicated 8.5 million euros to fund the initiative.
Why is the program important?
It aims to ensure menstrual equity, assist women facing financial hardship, and reduce environmental waste from disposable menstrual products.
Conclusion
The “My period, my rules” initiative by the Catalan government demonstrates a significant step towards menstrual equity, supporting the health and dignity of women and girls. By providing these essential products at no cost, Catalonia is addressing both economic barriers faced by its residents and environmental issues attributed to menstrual product waste. This program exemplifies a comprehensive approach to women’s health and equal rights, reinforcing the region’s commitment to progressive policies as Spain prepares for International Women’s Day celebrations.
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