A draft bill said women could have three days of leave a month – extended to five in some circumstances. Politicians warned the draft was still being worked on, after it was leaked to Spanish media outlets.
The days off would be permitted with a doctor’s note, but it is not expected to apply to those who experience mild discomfort, according to the draft.
Controversial laws
This would be a major moment for Europe as the first such legal entitlement for menstrual leave in the continent if passed.
Other countries including Japan, Indonesia and South Korea already have laws for unpaid menstrual leave. However, the laws have proved controversial. Some have slated them as a form of reverse sexism, with women across the board reluctant to ask for the leave.
Last year, campaigns were launched to address issues facing women in the pub sector. A Women at Night Taskforce report, published by Savenightlife CIC and Lady of the House groups, aimed to tackle sexual discrimination, harassment and assault in the workplace.
Supporting and celebrating women in pubs
Last September, industry veteran Jackie Moody-McNamara launched an initiative at the MA Leaders Club conference to ensure a 30% representation of women at podiums at events and conferences, and this March, the sector celebrated their female staff for International Women’s Day. Perhaps menstrual leave could be next on the list of ways to make the industry more accessible for women.
The legislation is part of a much wider reproductive health reform in Spain which will include changes to the country’s abortion laws and maternity leave before childbirth.
This includes removing the requirement of those aged 16 and 17 to have an abortion without the permission of their parents or guardians, which was introduced in 2015. It also eliminates a current three-day cooling-off period, and a requirement for abortion services to be provided in the public healthcare system.
