Period poverty, the lack of access to menstrual products, hygiene facilities, and education, remains a global challenge affecting millions of women, girls, and menstruating people. It not only impacts physical health but also limits opportunities in education, work, and social participation. Fortunately, the world is waking up to the urgency of this issue. Countries across the globe are implementing policies, initiatives, and campaigns to fight period poverty and dismantle the stigma surrounding menstruation.
As Uzuri Her joins the fight against period poverty we have been taking a look at those who have been fighting for change and making a difference around the world. In this blog post, we’ll explore how different countries are taking bold steps to eradicate period poverty and ensure menstrual equity for all.
1. Scotland: The World Leader in Period Poverty Legislation
Scotland has made headlines as a trailblazer in the fight against period poverty. In 2020, it became the first country in the world to provide free menstrual products to all who need them. The groundbreaking Period Products (Free Provision) (Scotland) Act mandates that local authorities and education providers offer free tampons and pads in public buildings, schools, and universities.
This legislation emerged from grassroots efforts and campaigns, including those led by the Hey Girls initiative, which seeks to end period poverty through education and product donation. Scotland's holistic approach acknowledges that addressing period poverty requires not only product provision but also the eradication of menstrual stigma.
2. New Zealand: Expanding Access in Schools
New Zealand followed suit by rolling out free menstrual products in schools across the country in 2021. The initiative, aimed at reducing absenteeism among students due to period poverty, ensures that menstruating students have free access to products like pads and tampons in school restrooms.
The program was introduced after a survey found that nearly one in twelve students had missed school due to a lack of access to period products. By normalizing menstrual care in educational settings, New Zealand hopes to foster a culture of openness and dignity.
3. India: Community-Led Initiatives and Government Support
Period poverty is a widespread issue in India, where millions of girls lack access to sanitary products and menstruation is often seen as a taboo topic. To tackle this, both the government and grassroots organizations have launched various initiatives.
The Menstrual Hygiene Scheme is a government program providing subsidized sanitary pads to adolescent girls in rural areas. NGOs like The Pad Project and Goonj are also leading community-based efforts, distributing reusable cloth pads and educating people on menstrual hygiene management.
Additionally, India's Bollywood film industry has played a role in raising awareness through films like Pad Man (2018), based on the real-life story of Arunachalam Muruganantham, an innovator who created affordable menstrual pads for women in rural communities.
4. Kenya: Pioneering Efforts in Africa
Kenya was the first country in Africa to eliminate taxes on menstrual products, abolishing the Value Added Tax (VAT) on sanitary pads and tampons in 2004. Since then, the Kenyan government has implemented free distribution programs to provide pads to schoolgirls in low-income communities, ensuring girls don’t miss school due to their periods.
Furthermore, organizations such as ZanaAfrica work to provide girls with not only menstrual products but also education on reproductive health, helping to combat the myths and stigma associated with menstruation.
5. United Kingdom: Fighting the “Tampon Tax” and Beyond
The United Kingdom has made significant strides in addressing period poverty. After years of campaigning, the country abolished the so-called “Tampon Tax” (the VAT on menstrual products) in 2021, making period products more affordable.
Additionally, the UK government has partnered with local councils, charities, and schools to distribute free period products to students and vulnerable populations. In England, the Red Box Project and organizations like Bloody Good Period provide menstrual products to homeless shelters and community centers, addressing the needs of the most marginalized.
6. United States: A Growing Movement at State Level
Although period poverty remains a challenge in the U.S., several states are leading the charge with innovative solutions. As of 2023, 30 states still impose sales taxes on menstrual products, but efforts to abolish the “Tampon Tax” are gaining traction. States like California, New York, and Illinois have already eliminated these taxes, while some are introducing bills to offer free products in schools, prisons, and shelters.
Grassroots organizations such as Period. and The Flow Initiative are mobilizing communities, donating products, and advocating for national-level policy changes to address period poverty on a larger scale.
7. France: Expanded Support for Students
In response to rising awareness of period poverty, France implemented a plan in 2021 to distribute free menstrual products in universities and high schools. The government also pledged to place free dispensers in student residences and university health services. France's health minister acknowledged that period poverty affects thousands of students, particularly those from low-income backgrounds, and is committed to ensuring access to menstrual care is a priority.
8. Uganda: Breaking the Silence through Education
In Uganda, period poverty is intertwined with cultural taboos that often lead to girls dropping out of school. NGOs and government initiatives have stepped in to address these challenges, combining the distribution of affordable pads with menstrual health education. Organizations like Afripads are producing cost-effective, reusable pads, while educating both boys and girls on the importance of menstrual health.
In 2017, Uganda passed a law mandating the provision of menstrual hygiene products in schools, marking a significant policy shift toward improving girls' school attendance and participation.
Why the Global Fight Against Period Poverty Matters
Period poverty isn’t just about lacking access to menstrual products—it's about the intersection of poverty, education, gender inequality, and health. When menstruators cannot afford or access basic menstrual care, it limits their ability to participate fully in society, affecting everything from attending school to job opportunities.
By recognizing period products as essential, countries are paving the way for menstrual equity. These efforts challenge societal taboos, break down barriers, and ensure that no one is forced to choose between their dignity and their health.
Moving Forward: What Needs to Happen?
While progress is being made, the fight against period poverty is far from over. Governments need to take further action by:
Abolishing menstrual product taxes: The “tampon tax” should be eliminated globally to make period products more affordable.
Providing free products: Schools, shelters, prisons, and other public institutions should offer free menstrual products as a necessity, not a luxury.
Eradicating stigma: Education campaigns are crucial to changing cultural perceptions around menstruation.
Ensuring sustainability: Support for eco-friendly, reusable menstrual products is necessary to make menstrual care both affordable and sustainable.
The global fight against period poverty is a fight for dignity, equality, and justice. With continued advocacy and action, we can create a world where periods are no longer a barrier to education, health, and opportunity.
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