There has been a lot of talk about a new law passed in Barcelona that allows women to take menstrual leave from work. As of this month, Spain has become the first country in Europe to allow paid menstrual leave. While it’s not a new concept, Spain is the first country to make it law. But what does this actually mean?
Spain was the first country to enact such a policy
In 2022, Spain allowed women to take menstrual leave from work. The country’s government passed a law that allows women to take off two days of work every month because of their periods. The law is based on the belief that women are more likely to be absent from work during their periods, which can cause them to lose out on wages and opportunities for advancement.
The law requires that companies give female employees time off for their period if they request it and the employee does not have to provide a medical certificate or justify why she needs time off for her period.
You may be surprised to learn that Spain was the first country to enact such a policy. It’s not just progressive, it’s also practical: up to half of women worldwide experience debilitating menstrual pain and cramps during their period.
Spain has long been a leader in progressive policies, including the implementation of paternity leave (which they were actually the first European country to do), early retirement at age sixty-two for women, and equal pay for men and women. This new menstrual leave policy is another sign that Spain is moving toward an increased awareness of women’s rights.
Other countries have considered similar policies
Spain is not the first country to consider menstrual leave. Other countries have considered similar policies, including Sweden, Norway, and Finland; Denmark; France and Germany. Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom are also considering it. US law has been proposed that would allow women in California to take up to three days of paid menstrual leave per year—which would make California the first state in America to pass such a bill!
Spain is leading the way on menstrual leave in Europe
Spain is leading the way on menstrual leave in Europe. While countries like Germany have introduced similar measures, Spain is the first country to enact a national law that requires companies with more than 50 employees to provide menstrual leave for female workers.
The policy has been celebrated as a progressive step forward for women’s rights, but it may not be enough to make up for the many other challenges women face working in Spain.
The country’s parliament has taken a step towards gender equality by approving legislation for “menstrual leave,” which would allow female workers to take up to two days off work each month if they have painful periods. This type of policy is common in East Asia but has not been enacted elsewhere until now.
