Odia diaspora discusses paid period leave in UK’s House of Lords

Bhubaneswar: Members of the Odia diaspora in London hosted the 5th international conference on paid period leave at the House of Lords in the UK Parliament on World Menstrual Hygiene Day bringing together representatives from India, the UK, Ghana, Nigeria, China, France, Spain and some other countries. They discussed menstrual dignity, workplace inclusion and gender equality.

Social activist Ranjeeta Pridarshini, who has been advocating for paid period leave for the past several years, said many organisations have started supporting menstrual well-being and paid period leave. She paid period leave could significantly improve women’s health, well-being and workforce participation, while speaking about the support received from stakeholders in Odisha, Bihar and Karnataka.

British businessman Lord Rami Ranger pledged his ongoing support for the paid period leave movement, describing it as an initiative that benefits not only women but for humanity at the programme, which was organised by Global South Corridor, a community organisation, Vishv Umiya Foundation, ECOF Enterprises and MHM-KIT.

The delegates discussed the importance of bringing menstrual well-being into mainstream workplace discussions. “While conversations around endometriosis and menopause have become more common, they often emerge only after problems have escalated. Menstrual well-being should form part of an earlier and more preventive approach to women’s health,” said Sweta Mohanty, executive director of the Global South Corridor.

Councillor Sumeet Jalan, representing Chelsfield ward on the Bromley council in London, stressed the need for greater awareness among boys and men regarding menstrual health and called for wider public education to address stigma surrounding menstruation. He also announced his intention to raise the issue within Bromley Council to encourage further policy discussions.

A documentary on paid period leave was screened during the conference, showcasing the experiences of women around the world and the growing international movement advocating menstrual dignity and workplace support. Executive directors of Global South Corridor Partha Sarathi Panda and Bibhuti Pattanayak were also present.