By: Natasha Archary
Spain has approved a draft bill that not only reinforces abortion rights but aims to offer women paid menstrual leave.
Aiming to become the first European country to do so, the Spanish leftist coalition government, hopes to destigmatise feminine health.
Spain’s Equality Minister, Irene Montero said, “this is the international message we want to send to women who are fighting for their sexual and reproductive rights. We need to ensure that women are guaranteed the final decision over what happens to their bodies.”
However, the bill has been met with mixed reactions with many calling it an insult to pro-life rights.
If passed, the bill will make parental consent for young women between 16-17 who wish to have an abortion null and void.
In addition, the bill will give women who suffer from severe period pains, 3-days of medical leave a month, with the option for 2 additional days in exceptional cases.
Women who experience extremely painful periods, may struggle to get through a regular workday, suffering from cramps, heavy bleeding, nauseas, diarrhoea, fever, headaches and dizziness.
Globally only a few countries offer paid menstrual leave, including Taiwan, South Korea, Japan, Zambia and Indonesia.
The bill is still months away from being approved and will still need to a public hearing.
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