Lawmakers in Spain have officially given final approval which grants paid medical leave to any woman suffering from period pain.
This makes it the first European country to advance in such a legislation, following somewhat in the footsteps of Indonesia, Japan and South Korea.
Hoy es un día histórico de avance en derechos feministas: la nueva Ley del Aborto y la Ley Trans y de derechos LGTBI van a ser ley 🏳️⚧️💚 pic.twitter.com/tcW0kGheTT
— Irene Montero (@IreneMontero) February 16, 2023
The law passed by 185 votes in favour and 154 against. Equality Minister Irene Montero tweeted out saying that this is a historic day for feminist progress as it entitles workers experiencing period pain to as much time off as they need.
The state social security system, and not employers, will be managing the paid sick leave for those utilising it. A doctor must approve the temporary medical incapacity as with paid leave for all other health reasons.
As of yet, the length of sick leave that doctors will be able to grant to women suffering from painful periods has not been specified.
This comes after Labour MP Rosianne Cutajar called for a national discussion on menstrual leave earlier this month. She had highlighted how there is a global scarcity on such legislation, leading to many women facing difficulties to perform daily routines and other consequences.
The newly approved Spanish law is part off a broader package on sexual and reproductive rights. This will allow anyone over the age of 16 to access abortion or gender reaffirming care without the required consent of a guardian.
#MaltaDaily