Scottish MPs voted on Tuesday in favor of free access to periodical protection to fight against menstrual insecurity, a first in the world on this scale.
On Twitter, Scottish Prime Minister Nicola Sturgeon expressed her "pride in having voted for this revolutionary law, which makes Scotland the first country in the world to provide free periodic protection to all those in need" .
The 121 members of the local Parliament of Holyrood all approved this text which aims to introduce into law the right to access free tampons and sanitary napkins.
The text was also widely approved at first reading in February.
Proud to vote for this groundbreaking legislation, making Scotland the first country in the world to provide free period products for all who need them.
An important policy for women and girls.
Well done to @ MonicaLennon7 @ClydesdAileen and all who worked to make it happen https://t.co/4lckZ4ZYIY
- Nicola Sturgeon (@NicolaSturgeon) November 24, 2020
“We all agree that no one should have to worry about their next reusable tampons or pads,” Scottish Labor MP Monica Lennon, who initiated the bill, told Parliament.
Initial cost objection
The Scottish government will now have to allow anyone who needs tampons or sanitary napkins anywhere in Scotland to get them free of charge.
Schools, high schools and universities will have to make a range of periodic protections available free of charge in their toilets.
The Scottish Government may also compel public bodies to provide these products free of charge.
Despite initial opposition and fears over the measure's cost estimated at £ 9.7million (around € 11million) per year - the bill made its way through to passage on Tuesday, with support from the Scottish government.
Monica Lennon's campaign had been supported by a broad coalition of unions, women's organizations and charities.
“Pioneer” role
On Twitter, the MP thanked "all those who campaigned" as well as her parliamentary colleagues who approved the text.
“This is a proud day for Scotland and a signal to the world that it is possible to implement free universal access to periodic protection,” she said.
Thank you to everyone who has campaigned for period dignity and to my MSP colleagues for backing the Bill tonight.
A proud day for Scotland and a signal to the world that free universal access to period products can be achieved.
#freeperiodproducts 🏴 https://t.co/NC3e97jPuQ
- Monica Lennon (@ MonicaLennon7) November 24, 2020
Rose Caldwell, Managing Director of the charity Plan International UK, praised Scotland's “pioneering” role.
She stressed the importance of this law, explaining that a "toxic trio" of problems caused menstrual insecurity: the "cost of sanitary protection", "lack of education" and "stigma and shame associated with periods. ".
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In France, the free distribution of hygienic protections has been tested in several middle and high schools as well as among women in precarious situations.
