Zambia Leads the Way: The First African Nation to Recognize Menstrual Leave

Michelle Curtis
Jul 20
2 min read

Did you know that Zambia was the first African country to officially honour a woman’s menstrual cycle with a workplace leave policy? In a world where menstruation is still a taboo subject in many workplaces, Zambia’s bold move has paved the way for conversations about women’s reproductive health in the professional sphere. Let’s unpack what this means—and how it compares globally.

What Is Zambia’s Menstrual Leave Policy?

In 2015, Zambia introduced a legal provision granting women the right to take one day off each month due to menstruation, commonly referred to as “Mother’s Day.” This policy allows women to stay home without a doctor’s note and without facing penalties. If an employer denies this right, they can face legal repercussions under the country’s Employment Code Act.

While some employers remain cautious, many recognize the value of this policy in promoting workplace equity and acknowledging the real physical impacts of menstruation. It’s a progressive step for reproductive rights in Africa.

Global Perspectives: Which Countries Offer Menstrual Leave?

Zambia isn’t alone. Several other countries have adopted menstrual leave policies—each with its own terms and cultural nuances:

Japan – Implemented in 1947, this law allows women experiencing painful periods to request leave. However, the law doesn’t require employers to pay for it, so uptake has been inconsistent.
South Korea – Women are entitled to menstrual leave. If they don’t take it, they receive additional compensation—an incentive for disclosure and flexibility.
Taiwan – Women are entitled to three days of menstrual leave per year, separate from regular sick leave. These days are paid at 50% of the regular wage if they exceed the yearly sick leave cap.
Indonesia – Women are granted two days per month. However, enforcement varies as the policy’s terms were loosened in a 2003 amendment, making it more discretionary.
Spain – In 2023, Spain became the first European country to introduce paid menstrual leave for medically diagnosed painful periods. Women can take three to five days off per month, though usage has been limited due to fear of stigma.

Why Menstrual Leave Matters

Menstrual leave is not about special treatment—it’s about recognizing biological realities that impact half the population. Painful periods, known medically as dysmenorrhea, can severely affect daily function and mental health. These policies help reduce stigma, validate women’s experiences, and promote inclusive work environments.

However, debates persist. Some argue menstrual leave could inadvertently lead to gender-based discrimination in hiring. Others worry about reinforcing stereotypes that women are less capable. This makes education and clear policy implementation crucial.

So, Where Do We Go From Here?

Zambia’s policy has sparked vital conversations not just across Africa, but globally. It challenges us to rethink how workplaces can better accommodate biological diversity. As we observe its ripple effects, we must also ask: Why aren’t more countries following suit?