First International Standard for Menstrual Products

Approximately 1.8 billion women and girls around the world face menstruation every month. It is not only a health issue but also a matter directly related to fundamental human rights such as education and labor force participation. However, the lack of menstrual products in developing countries creates significant barriers to access to this essential need. This is where an important initiative from the Swedish Standards Institute (SIS) and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation comes into play.

 

A Major Step Towards Global Standards for Menstrual Products

Under the leadership of SIS, an international effort has been launched to establish safety and quality standards for menstrual products. This initiative is supported by a funding of approximately 770,000 US dollars. Thanks to this funding, developing countries will also have the opportunity to participate in this critical process and raise awareness about this issue within their communities.

This global initiative on the quality and safety standards of menstrual products will encourage international trade and include clear safety requirements and comparable testing methods that will facilitate the production, import, and export of these products. This represents a significant step for both manufacturers and the millions of women and girls in need of menstrual products.

Menstrual health is not only limited to access to hygienic products but also includes basic needs such as clean water and adequate sanitation facilities. If women and girls do not have the appropriate conditions and information to manage their menstruation periods, it can hinder their social participation and access to equal opportunities.

 

Why is it Important?

Research shows that women's full participation in the economy can significantly increase the welfare of families and communities. A study by Eurasia Group reveals that if women-focused policies are implemented, global GDP (Gross Domestic Product) could increase by more than 7% by 2030, or more than 10 trillion US dollars.

Therefore, the creation of global standards for menstrual products is not only a health and hygiene issue but also crucial for economic growth, poverty reduction, and the promotion of gender equality. This initiative, led by SIS with the participation of over 40 countries, aims to ensure that women and girls everywhere have access to safe menstrual products, enabling them to make informed choices and participate actively in society.

The 770,000 US dollars in funding, which will be distributed over a period of three years, is an important step to increase participation in standardization efforts in developing countries and reduce barriers in this process. These efforts will also play a critical role in achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

This initiative has great potential to improve the health, well-being, and economic independence of women and girls worldwide. Global standards for menstrual products are expected to be a significant milestone in building a fair and equal society.

 

Source: SIS - Swedish Institute for Standards