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KIU International News: Scotland Becomes First Country to Provide Free Period Products

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By Rogers Wanambwa

KIU, Main Campus - Scotland has passed a bill that makes period products like tampons and pads free to all who need them.

The Period Products (Free Provision) (Scotland) Bill, which was passed unanimously, obliges local authorities to ensure that period products are generally attainable free of charge.

As it is, education institutions like schools and colleges have to make sure that period products are freely accessible to students, and designated public places must also make the products available.

According to the Scottish government, it is estimated that the measure will cost 24 million pounds a year – about $32 million.

Monica Lennon, who initiated and advocated for the legislation in a tweet said that “A proud day for Scotland and a signal to the world that free universal access to period products can be achieved,”

“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,” Nicola Sturgeon, Scotland's first minister, wrote on Twitter.

Concerning the bill, the country's official account tweeted, “That's right, Scotland has become the first country in the world to make period products free for all.” 

“Because in Scotland, we believe it's fundamental to dignity, equality, and human rights.”The tweet concluded.

"Scotland has become the first country in the world to make period products free for all. Because in Scotland, we believe it’s fundamental to dignity, equality, and human rights #ScotlandIsNow #FreePeriods," read the Twitter post.

Photo Credit: Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images