Just let us start by saying, that sanitary products for women should be free everywhere! Not only that they are not free of charge, they are quite pricey due to being taxed. Condoms have always been traditionally given for free for education purposes. However, women have been raising their voice asking governments to make pads and tampons free. Scotland on the other hand, has officially become the first country in the world to approve this proposition. Now on, you can officially get free pads and tampons in this country.
Scottish Parliament Approves Free Sanitary Products For All Women
In fact, the legisltaion has been in discussion since 2016. As sanitary products for women are taxed in most countries, as if they were products for luxury. However, feminists argue that women didn’t choose to have periods, and that pads and tampons should be free worldwide.
The Scottish parliament voted almost unanimously to be the first country in the world to change that. In addition, there were 112 votes in favor, 0 in against and only one abstention. Furthermore, the second step of passing the bill could witness some amendment propositions. The products are to be made available free of charge, at community centres, youth clubs and pharmacies, at an estimated annual cost of 24.1 million pounds ($31.2 million).
Women Spend Almost 2000$ On Such Products
This new law is supposed to come as a consequence to research showing the unrealistic cost of such sanitary products. According to a study, women spend almost 2000$ on period related products in their lifetime. Not only does the figure concern pads and tampons, but also PMS medication, and of course, »the pink tax» that’s added to sanitary products for women.
Scottish lawmaker Alison Johnstone asked: “Why is it in 2020 that toilet paper is seen as a necessity but period products aren’t? Being financially penalised for a natural bodily function is not equitable or just.”
The Right Path Towards Normalizing Menstruation
This is actually not the first time Scotland makes an impact regarding this issue. In fact, back in 2018, it became the first country ever to provide »free sanitary products in schools, colleges and universities.» This initiative comes as an attempt to normalize menstruation, especially for the young women of the country. In addition, according to parliament member Monica Lennon, this new introduced »bill» aims to promote gender equality, and change perception about women’s bodies.
Photos: Freepik, Tampax.