#16Days: UNI puts spotlight health and safety around menstruation, maternity and menopause  

The International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, 25 November, marks the beginning of the 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence. 

This year, UNI is focusing on occupational health and safety policies with a gender perspective as a means to create workplaces free from discrimination, violence and bias. We are highlighting how unions are organizing and campaigning to support women’s health, create safe workplaces and stop discrimination, particularly around menstruation, maternity and menopause. 

Although the Three ‘M’s are all natural biological experiences, they remain taboo topics across many cultures and workplaces. This often leads to the neglect of workers’ rights and needs, giving rise to discrimination which is one of the root causes of violence. 

Veronica Fernandez Mendez, Head of Equal Opportunities at UNI Global Union, said: “Menstruation, maternity and menopause affect half of the world’s population. When these natural processes are weaponized through stigma, discrimination and inadequate support, they undermine gender equality and contribute to gender-based violence. Addressing these issues requires comprehensive policies, education and a cultural shift towards greater inclusivity and respect for our experiences.”  

Besides demanding the ratification and implementation of ILO Convention 190 (C190) and Recommendation 206 (R206), we are also equipping trade unionists to fight for better policies and support systems in their workplaces through our series of manuals.  

1. Menstruation Manual: 

The Menstruation manual aims to dismantle myths and address the workplace challenges faced by menstruating workers. It highlights the lack of access to adequate sanitation, the ongoing stigma, and how these factors exacerbate health conditions like endometriosis and anaemia. The manual also provides guidelines for trade unions on how to support menstruating workers, such as negotiating menstrual leave policies, ensuring access to sanitary facilities, and advocating for privacy and dignity in the workplace.  

1. Maternity Manual: 

The Maternity manual explores the impact of maternity on workers and the systemic inequalities faced by pregnant and breastfeeding women. It provides practical guidance on implementing maternity protection, including safe working conditions and paid leave. The manual also discusses the role of trade unions in pushing for better maternity policies that account for surrogacy, adoption and the care crisis faced by women globally. It emphasizes the importance of collective bargaining to secure adequate rights for women before, during and after maternity.   

1. Menopause Manual: 

The Menopause manual provides insights into the biological, psychological and social changes associated with menopause. It focuses on the challenges faced by menopausal women in the workplace, including a lack of awareness and support, as well as harassment and discrimination. The manual offers a framework for trade unions to support menopausal workers by negotiating risk assessments, creating flexible working arrangements and addressing workplace conditions that may worsen symptoms, such as inadequate ventilation or uncomfortable uniforms. 

Follow us on social media and use the hashtag #16Days.