information and Stories about woman and female empowerment.

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Understanding the Gender Wage Gap in Moldova

Gender Wage Gap in MoldovaAs in many post-Soviet countries, Moldova struggles with deep-rooted economic problems and stubbornly high poverty rates, despite all the efforts undertaken in the sphere of reform and development. Gender inequality plays a very significant role in this process, as women suffer from low wages, bad economic opportunities and high vulnerability to economic shocks. This article explores the complexities of gender inequality, such as poverty and the gender wage gap in Moldova, illuminating the socio-economic dynamics, root causes and solutions toward empowering women and ensuring sustainable development.

Root Causes of the Gender Wage Gap in Moldova

The question of women’s empowerment in the case of Moldova is presented in traditional gender stereotypes and gender roles that institutionalize women’s oppression and ensure that there is a lack of equity in access to important resources.

In populations affecting policy, change and reform, according to the National Bureau of Statistics of the Republic of Moldova, in 2019 the number of female government ministers was 11% leaving 89% of males in government positions. Meanwhile, in other vocations, such as unpaid care work including domestic work and caregiving, which continues to be undervalued and largely invisible, thereby ensuring economic dependence and limiting the contribution to the formal economy.

In 2022, the National Bureau of Statistics of the Republic of Moldova reported that the average women’s gross income was estimated at $9,618.4 and men’s gross income was estimated at $11,380.7.

Structural, cultural and institutional factors—historical legacies and Soviet-era patriarchal norms—provide the ground for gender relations that underlie women’s access to resources and decision-making roles.

Economic transitions and globalization have exacerbated disparities, resulting in job losses, informal employment and precarious work conditions disproportionately affecting women.

Gender-based violence and cultural norms of discrimination contribute to the continued hindrances of women’s rights to justice. The lack of policies and gender-sensitive programming furthers women’s vulnerability to poverty and socio-economic empowerment, which in turn contributes to the vicious circles of deprivation.

Holistic Solutions for Empowerment

The interaction of gender inequality with poverty is such that it has to be done by multidimensional intervention at the roots while empowering women to participate effectively in the economic, social and political spheres. The short-term interventions should be focused on the economic empowerment of women, such as training in skills development, access to finance and support to businesses that women run.

According to UNDP, “trends of recent years show an amplification of the discrepancy in both the women employment (35.4% as compared to 44.7% for men) and labour force participation rates (36.4% and 46.5%, accordingly).” Righting the wrongs of gender violence, UNDP is actively breaking these discriminating norms and opening up a supportive environment for the socio-economic rise of women. Creating inclusive and comprehensive policies and programs while embedding gender equality and inclusive development can help break systemic barriers and foster sustainable socio-economic empowerment for women in Moldova.

UNDP has seen extraordinary progress in the past 20 years. According to U.N. Women, 46.1% of the female population of Moldova above statutory pensionable age receive a pension in comparison to 100% of males.

In contemporary Moldova, there are greater numbers of women in public office than ever before. These female change makers help achieve greater gender equality, targeting gender wage gap discrepancies. According to the UNDP, “Moldova is a country where people want to live and where all people fully exercise their human rights and enjoy a better quality of life in a more inclusive and resilient society by 2027.”

The Women’s Caucus

UNDP plans to relaunch the Women’s Caucus in the Parliament and raise the capacities of women parliamentarians to promote gender-responsive policies in order to combat gender inequalities. As of July 2021, Moldova has achieved a record of 40 women MPs seats in the Parliament of the Republic of Moldova. According to the UNDP on the accomplishments of the Women’s Caucus, “The introduction of a 40 percent electoral gender quota for parliamentary and local elections, an affirmative measure supported by UN Moldova is efficient, having so many women in today’s Parliament. However, to progress towards parity in decision-making, we need to simultaneously address the tremendous deterrents women face in entering politics, ranging from gender bias and stereotypes to physical and online violence and abuse, in addition to lack of financing and support from political parties,” said Valeria Ieșeanu, Officer in Charge, UNDP Moldova.”

The gender wage gap in Moldova and poverty are intertwined challenges. However,  the empowerment of women is one important step forward.

– Honorine Lanka Perera

Honorine is based in Highland, NY, USA and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Ending Period Poverty in Benin: How Innovation is Building Dignity 

Period Poverty in BeninAs a normal biological process, menstruation should not hinder access to health care, education or general well-being. In Benin, however, period poverty disproportionately affects millions of women and girls who do not have access to sanitary goods and menstrual hygiene management (MHM) materials. This lack of access forces girls to resort to risky behaviors that can negatively impact their confidence, health and school attendance. Despite these challenges, creative solutions are emerging. Thanks to the efforts of committed non-governmental organizations and government programs more is being done to eradicate period poverty in Benin. By empowering women and girls to manage their periods with dignity and confidence, these initiatives further seek to eradicate the taboo surrounding menstruation in Benin.

Understanding the Depth of the Problem

A complex web of interrelated factors beyond just physical hardship causes period poverty. Social taboos surrounding menstruation create a culture of silence that prevents open dialogue and access to reliable information. Traditional beliefs that portray menstruation as dirty or shameful contribute to a lack of support for girls and women during their periods.

This silence leads to poor sanitary practices. Unable to afford sanitary pads or lacking access to proper sanitation facilities, many women and girls have to use unsanitary substitutes. These practices increase the risk of infections, urinary tract issues and reproductive health problems.

Period poverty also compels girls to miss school. Fear of leaks, inadequate sanitary facilities and a lack of knowledge about menstrual hygiene management can all contribute to school absences. This disrupts their education and potentially widens the gender gap in educational achievement around the world and in Benin.

According to the World Bank, Benin’s national poverty rate in 2021-2022 was 36.2%. This widespread poverty creates significant challenges for women and girls to afford necessities, including sanitary products.

Eco-Friendly and Community Education Initiatives

Organizations like Ilewa recognize the need for sustainable solutions that address both environmental concerns and period poverty in Benin. It produces and markets reusable sanitary pads made from sustainable, locally sourced materials. Its 2021 fundraising drive provided reusable pads to 500 underprivileged girls in Parakou. By promoting a dignified approach to menstrual hygiene, these initiatives empower women. Additionally, they promote environmental sustainability by reducing reliance on disposable products.

Long-term change requires breaking the taboo surrounding menstruation. Organizations like Action Education organize community seminars and awareness campaigns. These campaigns go beyond educating girls and women, also including men and boys in the conversation about menstrual hygiene. These initiatives strive to dispel stigma and create a more supportive environment for menstruating women and girls by fostering empathy and compassion.

Impact and the Road Ahead

Benin’s creative solutions are showing positive results. Increased access to sanitary products, improved hygiene facilities and educational efforts are empowering women and girls to manage their periods effectively. This improves their health and overall well-being, while also promoting educational opportunities and social inclusion.

Challenges remain, however. Reaching remote areas, ensuring program sustainability, and addressing the broader social and cultural aspects of menstruation all require ongoing efforts. Scaling up these programs and advocating for legislative changes that prioritize menstrual health is crucial to achieving menstrual equity for all in Benin.

Conclusion

Period poverty is a complex problem, but a combination of innovative thinking and unwavering commitment can solve it. The programs and organizations working in Benin offer hope for a future where menstruation is not a source of shame or a barrier to opportunity. By shattering the taboo, promoting education, and providing practical solutions, these initiatives are laying the groundwork for a future where period power enables women and girls to thrive.

– Taiwo Makanjuola

Taiwo is based in Sunderland, UK and focuses on Global Health and Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Career Building Initiatives for Working Women in Kazakhstan

Working Women in KazakhstanKazakhstan has taken several steps to encourage and protect employed women, including implementing legal safeguards and diversifying political representation. Despite these efforts, there are still disparities between women and men in the workforce. On average, women are 10% less likely to participate in the paid workforce. Similarly, according to the World Bank, women are less likely to be business owners, with 71% of businesses run by men as opposed to 29% run by women. In addition, almost a quarter of working women in Kazakhstan are vulnerably employed, meaning that there are little to no protections in place to guard against economic shocks.

The most notable disparity for working women in Kazakhstan is their participation in domestic labor. A study by the World Bank notes that “women in Kazakhstan spent 19% of their day and men spent 6.3% of their day on unpaid work.” This means that working women in Kazakhstan spend approximately three times more energy and time on domestic tasks in addition to their paid jobs than their male counterparts.

Combating Gender Stereotypes in Kazakhstan

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) notes that gender stereotyping persists among Kazakh citizens. For instance, men are more likely to seek higher education, especially technical and vocational education, as women remain associated with the domestic sphere. Cultural norms in Kazakhstan are generally positive toward gender equality, however, women are less likely to be seen as political and business leaders. Instead, there is a widespread expectation of women to assume roles associated with family. 

The Kazakhstan Country Gender Assessment urges Kazakhstan to implement strategies to diversify the workforce and make jobs more accessible to women. It highlights gender equality in diverse sectors as an important theme to be mainstreamed into initiatives to build regional knowledge platforms. Furthermore, it encourages the country to implement initiatives such as raising awareness on gender equality, career or leadership advising services for female students and empowering female perspectives, especially on a government level. 

Operation Mercy’s Comprehensive Approach

Several initiatives aim to create opportunities for working women in Kazakhstan. A notable program that promotes female empowerment is Operation Mercy, founded in 1991. It advocates the Self Help Approach, which encourages women to cultivate self-worth on an individual and community level. In addition, it specifically focuses on impoverished communities and relationship building on an interpersonal, community and faith-based level, providing education services through academic establishments. The operation’s ongoing programs cover taboo topics, such as STDs, unwanted pregnancy and trafficking, all of which disproportionately affect young women. By providing this information, Operation Mercy motivates young Kazakh women to prioritize their well-being, enabling them to focus on their careers and futures. Each year, the organization serves more than 2,000 students.

Skill-Building for Women in STEM

In Astana, a skill-building marathon organized by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) specifically targeted women in STEM, hosting 37 women with science education backgrounds. The Skillathon aimed at demonstrating to participants how to develop soft skills for career advancement and promote research. The seminars began by raising awareness around the importance of dismantling prejudice and stereotypes in the STEM field and empowering women to showcase their knowledge and skills, leading by example for future generations. In addition, the initiative led sessions to sharpen technical skills, like communication, commercialization of scientific projects and systems thinking.

Gender Equity in Renewable Energy

Efforts by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) to promote gender equity in Kazakhstan’s renewable energy sector addresses the low participation rate of women, which stands at a mere quarter of the workforce. Recognizing the historical gender imbalance, USAID has initiated training events, site visits and networking opportunities aimed at breaking down barriers for women in this field. Furthermore, USAID’s introduction of internship opportunities in 2019 is a strategic move to create more inclusive employment prospects within the energy sector.

Looking Forward

As Kazakhstan continues to address gender disparities in the workforce, initiatives like Operation Mercy, the UNDP Skillathon, and USAID’s focus on renewable energy offer promising pathways toward greater equality and empowerment for women. These efforts, aimed at breaking down barriers and promoting female participation across diverse sectors, lay the groundwork for a more inclusive and equitable future.

– Anna Williams

Anna is based in Burlington, VT, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Udaan’s Efforts in Nepal: Giving Girls a Second Chance

Udaan's Efforts in Nepal: Giving Girls a Second ChanceWomen constitute more than half of Nepal’s population, yet they reside in a society where traditional norms frequently restrict girls’ access to education. However, Udaan’s efforts in Nepal aim to change this reality. The Udaan project, translating to flight or soar in Nepali, represents a transformative effort to educate and empower girls.

The Challenges Girls Face in Nepal

According to the Educational Equality Institute, societal norms, affordability issues and a lack of parental motivation hinder girls’ access to education in Nepal. Notably, 5.1% of Nepal’s population lived on $1.90 a day in 2022 and 20.27% lived below the poverty line in 2023. Poverty increases the likelihood of children, especially girls, dropping out of school. Approximately 18% of Nepalese children do not complete primary education, with girls making up 49% of this group. Parents often prioritize marriage over education for their daughters, believing they cannot secure jobs to support their parents in the future, unlike their sons. This mindset leads to many girls leaving school early, perpetuating cycles of poverty and inequality.

Transformative Education through UDAAN

Udaan has become a driving force for change, offering girls a chance to overcome societal barriers and chase their dreams. The project delivers comprehensive support through scholarships, mentorship programs and community engagement efforts. These scholarships pay for tuition, books, snacks and other educational expenses, eliminating financial hurdles and allowing girls to continue their education without interruption. Aimed at girls aged 9 to 14, Udaan features an intensive 11-month curriculum designed to challenge damaging social norms and provide a stable, secure environment for girls’ education. This enables them to catch up on missed education and rejoin the public school system within a year.

Udaan’s Efforts in Nepal: Shaping the Future

Beyond offering education to girls, Udaan also aims to prevent child marriage by providing quality education. This empowers them to make informed life decisions, secure sustainable jobs and support themselves and their families. As Udaan expands its impact, the outlook for girls in Nepal is bright. Empowering each girl to follow her dreams and contribute to her community, Udaan’s influence reaches well beyond the classroom, fostering a more equitable and inclusive society for future generations.

Looking Forward

Udaan’s comprehensive approach promises a brighter future for girls in Nepal, breaking the chains of poverty and gender bias. Udaan’s efforts in Nepal are pivotal to this mission. Through education and empowerment, this initiative paves the way for young women to achieve their potential and contribute significantly to their communities. The ripple effects of their success are bound to foster greater gender equality and economic development across Nepal. As these girls soar to new heights, they exemplify the transformative power of education in shaping societies.

– Erika David

Erika David is based in Union, NJ, USA and focuses on Good News and Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Women in Mission: Lutheran Women’s Missionary League

Women in Mission: Lutheran Women’s Missionary LeagueSince its inception in 1942, the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League (LWML) has empowered women to make significant contributions through active mission ministries and global mission support. Moreover, the organization focuses on serving others, sharing faith and engaging in mission support, underscoring the belief that every woman has the potential to effect meaningful change.

LWML’S History

In 1942, amid the difficulties of World War II, more than 100 women from 15 districts of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod gathered in Chicago, Illinois, to establish the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League (LWML). This significant meeting laid the foundation for a group committed to fostering mission work and supporting global missions by gathering funds. They drafted a constitution, coined the organization’s name, initiated projects and set up a publishing committee for books, magazines and programs. They aimed to enhance mission awareness among women and raise funds for global mission work, making LWML an official auxiliary of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod (LCMS).

Mission Grants

LWML holds a national convention every two years, where delegates from each district vote on mission grants to support for the next biennium. These projects, originating both within the U.S. and internationally, are selected with a financial goal in mind, aimed to be met over the two years. Moreover, this process ensures LWML’s continued funding and support for a wide range of mission projects around the world, reflecting its commitment to global outreach and support. Here are some examples of the missions that were chosen for the 2023-2025 mission year:

  • Feeding Haitian Children Through Gospel and Meals — Trinity HOPE. Since 1999, Trinity Hope has been a pivotal nonprofit dedicated to feeding children, teachers and cooks in Haitian Christian schools. Recognizing that many Haitian children might only eat once a day, Trinity Hope provides a crucial noon meal to help them stay focused and engaged in their education.
  • Lutheran Women in Mission Finish the Job — Ministry in Mission. The Ministry in Mission (MNM) grant supported meal programs, elderly care and medicine distribution in Haiti and the Dominican Republic. It also coordinated disaster relief following the 2021 earthquake and Hurricane Matthew in 2016, addressing immediate needs and aiding recovery efforts in affected areas.
  • Water and the Word — Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kenya. The Water and the Word mission project has implemented water systems like filtration, irrigation and water harvesting near rural Kenyan schools. This initiative addresses the challenge of accessing clean drinking water, a task that often consumes significant time and poses health risks for children. Kenyan students now have access to safe water due to these systems, allowing them to dedicate more time to their education.
  • Mites: A Few Coins Can Make a Big Difference. Drawing inspiration from the biblical tale of the widow’s offering, LWML promotes charitable giving through “Mite” boxes, emphasizing that small contributions can collectively make a significant impact. This fundraising approach, pre-dating LWML, demonstrates its effectiveness with 92 Ladies Societies raising $6,651.31 in 1930.

Encouraging Women to Action

LWML members receive a Mites box designed specifically for the organization, they are encouraged to contribute any amount, even small daily pocket change. These boxes, collected within LCMS churches, support national mission grants. The organization provides monthly updates on the Mite offerings through its website. In addition, the LWML created the Young Woman Representative (YWR) program to attract more women. This initiative allows districts to sponsor young women at national conventions, offering them a firsthand experience of the organization’s impact.

Heart to Heart: Sisters of All Nations

The LWML has launched the Heart to Heart program to foster relationships among women from diverse cultural backgrounds, enhancing the diversity in mission work. In addition, this initiative aims to prevent the isolation of women from different cultures or those who speak different languages, fostering stronger fellowship and more effective mission work. Moreover, the Heart to Heart Program includes participants from various countries, reflecting its commitment to inclusivity and leveraging varied gifts in serving the organization’s multicultural missions.

Looking Ahead

The Lutheran Women’s Missionary League (LWML) continues to forge pathways of hope and service across the globe, guided by a steadfast commitment to faith-driven action. Through innovative programs like “Heart to Heart” and impactful mission grants, LWML empowers communities from Haiti to Kenya, ensuring that the spirit of giving and service transcends borders and cultural divides.

Furthermore, as the organization looks to the future, its ongoing mission to nurture, support and inspire women in their faith and service endeavors promises to bring about transformative changes, enriching lives and spreading hope wherever there is need.

– Heather Gisi

Heather is based in South Dakota, USA and focuses on The Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Nepal Knotcraft Centre: Macrame Fighting Poverty

Nepal Knotcraft CentreAccording to the World Bank, Nepal is considered one of the slowest developing countries in Asia, with illiteracy rates as high as 90% and frequent natural disasters. While agriculture provides most of the jobs in Nepal, there is still significant opportunity for expansion. Unfortunately, women and girls who lack education and financial resources are often vulnerable to human trafficking. To address this issue, the Nepal Knotcraft Centre (NKC) employs women and girls, providing them with safe jobs and pay to help themselves while also benefiting the country’s culture and environment. Shyam Badan Shrestha founded Nepal Knotcraft Center, a social enterprise, in 1984. The center aims to employ socially and economically deprived Nepalese women to create authentic Nepali products to sell using recyclable materials.

Helping Women

NKC employs hundreds of women from every ethnic group in Nepal. The center sends teams to remote regions to train women and girls in producing goods for the company, which equips them with the necessary skills to work for the company and become self-sufficient employees.

It is worth noting that all artisans receive salaries from the company. The Nepal Knotcraft Centre also offers education scholarships to younger girls from the families working for them. Even a small wage immensely benefits poor women, often transforming their situation into a two-income household and granting them pocket money that they don’t need to request from husbands or fathers to spend on luxuries like toys and clothes for the family.

Helping the Environment

The Nepal Knotcraft Centre uses macramé techniques and a wide variety of sustainable materials to make its products. When the company began in the ’80s, it would import cotton just like any regular enterprise. However, over time, it aimed to create an authentic Nepali product. Therefore, it expanded to using various materials based on indigenous knowledge, such as corn, wheat, bamboo, pine, banana, cardamom, hyacinth, rice, cattail and papyrus. All these materials require different weaving skills and result in various products.

NKC creates Nepali culture using all-natural and sustainable materials without generating any waste. The Himalayan mountains of Nepal have approximately 140,000 tons of artificial waste, which is why NKC has partnered with the Avni Center for Sustainability. They regularly strip down hiking waste, such as ropes and tents, which the craftswomen use in their projects. NKC is gradually moving beyond mere sustainability to fully recycled products.

Helping Nepal

NKC bases all its products on a traditional Nepali macramé knotted design. It sells earrings, purses, baskets, placemats and woven seats. These products are available for purchase worldwide, allowing people worldwide to connect with Nepali culture. These products carry a deep cultural significance for Nepal. By setting up a website to teach and sell Nepali macramé art, NKC is promoting Nepali culture in the international market. Furthermore, this initiative helps preserve the culture and prevent it from dying out in Nepal.

– Varsha Pai
Photo: Pexels

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Women’s Rights in Burkina Faso

Women's Rights in Burkina FasoBurkina Faso is a country in West Africa that is part of the Sahel region. The nation is among the poorest in the world, ranked by the Human Development Index (HDI) at 184 out of 194 in the 2021-2022 HDI report. Nearly half of the population lives below the poverty line and due to a lack of women’s rights in Burkina Faso, women in particular struggle to escape.

Women in Society

There are different communities and ethnic groups across the country that vary in the way that they treat women. However, generally, there is a deep-rooted acceptance that women are beneath men in terms of social standing. The strict gender roles mean that women do not have assets of their own. They have no right to inheritance and cannot own land or have credit. Women are, therefore, forced to obtain permission from their husbands for many activities, especially to make payments.

Sexual Health

This lack of autonomy impacts their everyday activity and health. Due to transportation and medication fees, they cannot take themselves or their children to the hospital without prior permission. As well as this, they have no power to insist that their husband uses contraceptives. With a culture of polygamy and levirate, there is a high risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and contraceptives are incredibly important.

In general, there is limited access to sexual, reproductive and maternal services throughout the country. A lack of facilities combined with a lack of independence means that it is tough for women to get the help that they need, leading to high maternal mortality rates, high birth rates and illegal abortions.

Women in Education

For change to occur, it is vital to have women in positions of power. However, according to the United Nations (U.N.) Women, in 2021, Burkina Faso’s women took up only 6.3% of the seats in parliament. There are a multitude of social factors that dissuade girls from pursuing their education. This in turn affects the number of those who can fight for women’s rights in Burkina Faso.

Once a woman is married, their time is taken up by unpaid domestic labor. Education becomes less of a priority. Child marriage is a significant concern in Burkina Faso, with approximately 52% of women in 2018 between the ages of 20 and 24 married before the age of 18. It is believed that investing in a young girl’s education is futile as she will marry into a family very soon.

The fear of physical and sexual abuse in schools also influences a girl’s decision to continue her education. This abuse can be from both students and teachers, creating an association that school can result in unwanted pregnancies. As a result, 50% of the young female population in Burkina Faso are not in education or employment.

SWEDD

It has become clear to the government and the World Bank that investing in women is important for economic growth and social welfare. The World Bank’s Vice President for Western and Central Africa, Ousmane Diagana, says that “by investing in women and girls, countries will build resilient communities that can bounce back from crises and adapt to rising threats, such as climate change and fragility.”

The Sub-Saharan Africa Women’s Empowerment and Demographic Dividend (SWEDD) initiative was launched by the World Bank in 2015. The project addresses issues of child marriage, education and gender-based violence in Burkina Faso and across the Sahel region. Across the region, 3420 safe spaces have been established, providing vital support. Additionally, more than 7000 midwives have been deployed to rural areas, contributing to improved maternal and child health. SWEDD also works toward changing the mindset of both men and women to uproot internalized ideals about women’s rights in Burkina Faso.

SWEDD works with people from across the Sahel region who have an audience. More than 9000 religious leaders, 35 musicians and 17 footballers used its platforms to raise awareness and stimulate dialogue. Increasing resources and facilities is insufficient if women can’t use them. This is why social and behavioral change is necessary for women in Burkina Faso to gain independence and take control of their future.

– Liz Johnson
Photo: Flickr

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Period poverty in the Balkans

Period Poverty in Europe: The Balkan CaseWith half of the world’s population comprising of females, period poverty affects millions of women and girls on an ongoing monthly basis. Defined by ActionAid as the lack of access to safe, hygienic menstrual products and an inability to manage menstruation with dignity, period poverty remains prevalent in many least-developed and developing countries worldwide. But how common is period poverty in the Balkans?

PaRiter, a Croatian human rights organization and Jana Kocevska, a North Macedonian female rights activist and founder of Tiiit! Inc., collaborate to highlight and address inequality and period injustice affecting women and girls in the Balkans. Its efforts focus on raising awareness and advocating for systemic changes to address these challenges.

The Balkan Case

The Balkans, a region on Europe’s mountainous southeastern peninsula, includes countries like Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia and Slovenia. Historically, this area has experienced long periods of instability and conflict, leading to significant disparities between these countries and the rest of Europe, particularly its Western counterparts.

Multidimensional poverty remains high, with 34% of people in Kosovo living below $6.85 per day according to the World Bank’s poverty line for upper-middle-income countries. In contrast, the number of people living below this threshold in the rest of Europe amounts to only 2%.

Period Poverty in Croatia

With this lack of socio-economic development, gender-based poverty has increasingly been scrutinized. A study conducted by PaRiter in 2021 indicated that 9.9% of participating women in Croatia sometimes did not have the financial resources to buy enough sanitary products, while 28.1% were forced to buy cheaper items of worse quality.

Until 2023, Croatia imposed a 25% tax on tampons, which was then reduced to 15%. This tax cut marks progress in combating period poverty, yet the ongoing stigma around menstruation and limited access to affordable, quality sanitary products still cause disparities. Many women and girls, due to these barriers, miss work or school, further increasing their vulnerability.

However, through PaRiter’s initiative, many educational institutions across Croatia have implemented a trial run providing free sanitary products to people who menstruate. In response, Marinella Matejcic, women’s rights and reproductive justice program lead from PaRiter, stated “We are happy not only with the fact that many educational institutions and local administrations have decided to take action but also because a paradigm shift has taken place regarding the topics considered suitable to be addressed in a public debate. The battle against period poverty is an issue of public interest that overcomes ideological differences.”

Interview with North Macedonian Female Rights Activist

Croatia sets an example for other Balkan countries with its advanced public and health care infrastructure. Unlike Croatia, nations like Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, Kosovo and Serbia still grapple with limited access to modern gynecology and contraceptive methods. Rural areas in these countries often face challenges in accessing clean water and their health facilities, underdeveloped and burdened with outdated perspectives on female sexual and reproductive health, further exacerbate the disparities in women’s health care.

In an interview, North Macedonian Jana Kocevksa described that “Menstrual Justice is about opening the debate, acknowledging that menstruation is an important natural phenomenon related to sexual and reproductive health” and that “politics leading to ending menstrual poverty should be systematically supported by the national health program.”

On October 4, 2023, North Macedonia joined the UNECE-WHO/Europe Protocol on Water and Health as the 28th member, committing to enhance health and hygiene support in its minority and rural communities. This initiative marks a crucial step in addressing disparities in menstrual hygiene by focusing on clean water access. However, to fully combat period poverty, the country recognizes the need to expand education and awareness campaigns to dismantle the stigma associated with menstruation.

In its survey, PaRiter pointed out that a key factor of period poverty was that many women felt shame and embarrassment around menstruation, indicating a severe gap in the current education system. Kocevska suggests that the solution “can only be achieved with political and well managed public health politics, emphasizing that “Menstrual justice means that marginalized people and minorities, people in different age groups or urban or rural areas, should all have equal access to knowledge on menstruation, periods free of stigma and clean period products.”

Period Poverty: Destigmatization

Efforts by organizations like PaRiter and activists such as Kocevska have raised awareness of period poverty in the Balkans, yet ongoing discussions are crucial to identify further areas for development. Many countries in the region lag behind their European counterparts in health and education, often clinging to outdated views on menstrual and reproductive health.

Efforts to educate on sexual health and women’s reproductive rights may need to undergo systemic changes at both local and national levels. This is critical to dismantling the stigma associated with menstruation and women’s cycles, ultimately aiming to eradicate period poverty in the Balkans.

As PaRiter’s Matejcic states, “For the idea of menstruation as something dirty to be definitively deconstructed and or the menstrual cycle to be destigmatized, it is necessary to introduce sexual education in school to educate citizens. Embarrassment and shame are fought with knowledge.”

– Zoe Winterfeldt
Photo: Unsplash

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WOBA: Addressing Period Poverty in Vietnam

Period Poverty in VietnamThe 2018-2022 Vietnamese program, Women-led Output-Based Aid (WOBA), aimed to tackle poor water sanitation, reducing period poverty in Vietnam and cultural taboos surrounding menstruation. First established by the key Vietnamese network East Meets West (EMW), the female-led force wished to tackle gender inequality and attitudes to menstruation in Vietnam’s poorest communities.   

With the help of the Vietnam Women’s Union (VMU), an organization with more than 13 million members nationwide, EMW’s program WOBA has expanded to the most marginalized households and women. Their collaboration has continued to make positive changes to period poverty in Vietnam. 

Vietnam’s Stigma Towards Menstruation

Medical News Today defines period poverty as the political, cultural and socio-economic “barriers to menstrual products, education and sanitation.” Period poverty in Vietnam may have harmful impacts on women’s lives. This includes their mental health, health and hygiene, work balance and education. Further, lacking access to menstrual products may result in dangerous infections and an increase in possible toxic shock syndrome. The stigma surrounding menstruation often results in women’s exclusion from the community. 

WOBA’s Support

WOBA sought to decrease the gender inequalities that have disproportionately disadvantaged women’s access to sanitary water. The program’s primary objectives include increasing access to water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) in marginalized communities and reducing menstrual stigma and exclusion targeted at women. Its fight against period poverty in Vietnam focused on the poorest areas, including Hoa Binh, Thanh Hoa, Nghe An, Ha Tinh and Ben Tre.

By 2022, WOBA had set several crucial objectives to enhance water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) initiatives. These goals encompassed reinforcing governmental efforts in implementing WASH policies, improving accessibility and utilization of WASH facilities in marginalized communities, empowering women and advocating for hygienic practices. A significant focus was also placed on delivering clean water to female-led households. 

Noteworthy accomplishments of the program included assisting 52,580 women and girls in managing menstrual hygiene challenges. Additionally, installing hygienic latrines for 18,000 marginalized households and establishing new water connections benefiting 8,000 households facing economic hardship. 

Truong Thi Hoa’s Story

Truong Thi Hoa is the “President of the Tan Xuan Commune Women’s Union in Nghe An province.” She fights to tackle harmful taboos and empower women to engage with menstruation hygiene safely in her Vietnamese communities. In a conversation with Water for Women in 2023, she opened up about her experience with menstrual stigma. She recalls feeling “ashamed and afraid to meet others or go to school during her period.”

Truong Thi Hoa wishes to bring dignity to women affected by period poverty in Vietnam. Her training sessions educate women on the appropriate use of sanctuary products. In the same conversation with Water for Women, she believes inviting men into the conversation “is an efficient way to support, understand and share the health care burden with women and girls.”

Truong Thi Hoa feels that an essential step in breaking cultural taboo is for women to invite their husbands to her organized training sessions. For Truong Thi Hoa, men are vital allies who help bring gender equality to Vietnam’s attitudes toward menstrual hygiene.

Long-Term Improvements

Period poverty in Vietnam has dramatically improved with the aid of the  WOBA program. During the program, EMW collaborated with Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), which funded “national consultants on menstrual health and hygiene.” Its educational sessions continue the work of individuals like Truong Thi Hoa, providing informative conversations and practices with women about their “hygiene and sanitation needs” and menstrual health.

Furthermore, EMW’s WASH program has continued to aid schools in Vietnam. Due to challenging weather conditions, families are often deprived of clean water. In response, the initiative “installs water filtration systems and hand washing basins” in rural and mountainous schools where access to clean water may be a daily struggle. Additionally, the program’s educational initiative continues to raise awareness about the importance of personal hygiene in schools. Its conduction of “a behavior change campaign promoting hand washing” continues to reduce period poverty in Vietnam.

UNICEF’s Report on Menstrual Health in East Asia

In 2023, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) released a regional progress review on Menstrual Health in East Asia. UNICEF commended the positive observance of Menstrual Hygiene Day by Thrive Networks/East Meets West Foundation Vietnam as an ongoing effort to combat period poverty in Vietnam. The report underscored that the foundation’s work “contributed to increasing menstrual health awareness.” As well as helped “gain attention from one of the high-ranking government officials.”

Looking Forward

While many women struggle with period poverty in Vietnam, integral organizations such as EMW and its projects, such as WOBA, have successfully aided the improvements of menstrual hygiene for many women.

– Kasia Flisiuk
Photo: Unsplash

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Recent Initiatives Empowering Women in Mali

Recent Initiatives Empowering Women in MaliMali, a landlocked country in West Africa, has one of the world’s fastest growing populations. The country houses more than nine million women, yet the state of women’s health remains a critical issue. Women in Mali face significant challenges. A lack of awareness and respect for human rights, especially for women and children, continues to drive disparities in education, governance, economic independence, and security. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) ranks Mali in a low human development category, placing it 186th out of 191 countries and territories globally.

Gender-based violence and female genital mutilation persist as major issues for women in Mali, further undermining women’s health and well-being. Legal avenues for justice are often inaccessible to women due to social pressures and a lack of awareness of their rights. Moreover, Mali’s political landscape has become very unstable in recent years, leading to a humanitarian crisis and the displacement of more than 470,000 people in the country.

Initiatives

Amidst the challenges that women in Mali face, initiatives led by organizations like the United Nations (U.N.) Women offer the nation hope for progress. Furthermore, this initiative collaborates with the government, civil society and local communities to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment through various programs. U.N. Women addresses critical areas affecting women’s health and rights and works to alleviate them.

Norms, policies and standards are targeted for reform by U.N. Women. Governance initiatives focus on increasing the participation of women in politics and advocating for gender-responsive planning and budgeting. Economic empowerment programs prioritize entrepreneurship to empower women to secure livelihoods and combat poverty.

Days for Girls Enterprise

Another important initiative empowering women in Mali is called the Days for Girls Enterprise, launched by the Ouelessebougou Alliance. This initiative is making significant strides by addressing a critical aspect of women’s health: menstrual hygiene management. In November 2017, the Alliance launched the first-ever enterprise in Mali, aiming to provide sustainable solutions for the lack of feminine hygiene products and education in the country.

Furthermore, by providing sustainable feminine hygiene solutions and comprehensive health education, Days for Girls Enterprise is actively contributing to the empowerment of women in Mali. Women are not only gaining economic opportunities for work but are also using their education to serve as change agents within their communities. This initiative is driving positive social change and fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.

MOMENTUM Integrated Health Resilience

The MOMENTUM Integrated Health Resilience (MIHR) initiative is actively empowering women in Mali by focusing on family planning, reproductive health services and the health of mothers, newborns and children. By enhancing health and community systems and encouraging evidence-based decision-making, MOMENTUM is creating a significant impact, not just in Mali but worldwide.

Within the first one to three years in Mali, the initiative has achieved measurable results, with 250 health care providers participating in MIHR-supported training and 66 health facilities enhancing their health information systems. This initiative has not only increased awareness of women’s health in Mali but also sparked crucial conversations on the topic.

Looking Forward

As Mali grapples with the many challenges affecting women’s health, initiatives like U.N. Women, Days for Girls Enterprise and MIHR demonstrate a commitment to advancing gender equality and empowering women in Mali. By targeting critical areas such as governance, economic empowerment and reproductive health, these initiatives are laying the foundation for transformative change. As the progress sparked by these initiatives continues to grow, it promotes a brighter future for women in Mali, one where women are given opportunities for success, safety and prosperity.

– Katherine Barrows
Photo: Pixabay