Italy Mulls Joining Indonesia and Japan in Offering Time off for Painful Periods

Woman face silhouette.

 
Rome, 29 Jumadil Akhir 1438/28 March 2017 (MINA) – Italy could soon become the first Western country to offer paid ‘menstrual leave’ to women who experience painful periods.

The country’s parliament has been discussing the measure, which would mean companies have to offer three paid days off each month to women.

It’s not the first time for this type of legislation, with countries including Japan and Indonesia already allowing women time off.

Experts have previously argued it makes sense as it would make workers feel happier and more comfortable.

Not everyone agrees

While that’s the view of some in Italy, not everyone agrees, reports the Washington Post.

Marie Claire has praised the proposal, saying it proves the country is all about progress.

However, in women’s magazine Donna Moderna, Lorenza Pleuteri feared it might backfire on ladies.

She voiced concerns that kind of legislation might make some firms think twice before taking on women.

Writer Miriam Goi penned a piece for Vice Italy, where she stated it could also compound the stereotype that women are more emotional at certain times in their menstrual cycle.

The issue is certainly a hotly-debated topic in the UK.

In September, Radio 5 Live’s Emma Barnett sparked outrage after discussing menstrual leave on BBC Breakfast. (T/RS5/RS1)

Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA)