Foreign: Scotland first in world to make period products free
Mako Jerera
Scotland has become the first country in the world to make period products including tampons and sanitary pads, free for all.
Menstrual products will be available in places like pharmacies and community centers.
They will be distributed through councils and schools, as the country`s Period Products Act comes into force.
The bill was introduced by Labour MSP Monica Lennon, who has been campaigning to end period poverty since 2016.
She said; “Local authorities and partner organisations have worked hard to make the legal right to access free period products a reality.
This is another big milestone for period dignity campaigners and grassroots movements which shows the difference that progressive and bold political choices can make.”
“As the cost-of-living crisis takes hold, the Period Products Act is a beacon of hope which shows what can be achieved when politicians come together for the good of the people we serve,” Lennon added.
“Providing access to free period products is fundamental to equality and dignity, and removes the financial barriers to accessing them,” said Scotland`s Social Justice Secretary Shona Robison in a statement.
Awareness has grown in recent years about how access to period products can affect education and economic stability for people who need them.
Scotland is the first country to offer period products free of charge on a national scale.
Others, including New Zealand and Kenya, distribute products for free in public schools.
Zimbabwe has managed to remove duty on sanitary pads, a move which has made period products affordable even in the face of rising costs.
Recent Comments