By Ahmad Deedat Zakari
Scotland has passed a law pronouncing period products free for all its citizens. The landmark legislation is the first of its kind in the world.
The Members of Scottish Parliament, MSPs, have unanimously approved the Bill in November 2020 to combat period poverty
According to a report by BBC, local authorities now have a legal duty to provide free items such as tampons and sanitary pads to “anyone who needs them”.
The bill, now known as the Period Products Act, was introduced by Labour MSP Monica Lennon, who has advocated to end period poverty since 2016.
Lennon said: “Local authorities and partner organisations have worked hard to make the legal right to access free period products a reality.
“This is another big milestone for period dignity campaigners and grassroots movements which shows the difference that progressive and bold political choices can make.
“As the cost-of-living crisis takes hold, the Period Products Act is a beacon of hope which shows what can be achieved when politicians come together for the good of the people we serve.”
