The World Council of Churches (WCC), in collaboration with Norwegian Church Aid and the International Partnership on Religion and Sustainable Development (PaRD), is set to host a significant webinar on May 28 in observance of Menstrual Hygiene Day.
This online event aims to raise awareness about the stigma surrounding menstruation and promote gender equality in health and hygiene.
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The webinar will bring together experts from various fields to discuss menstrual hygiene from a comprehensive perspective. Topics will include gender sensitivity, health, and access to essential water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities.
The event promises to be a platform for holistic discussions on menstrual health, aiming to address and dismantle the pervasive stigma and cultural taboos associated with menstruation.
“As we observe the 10th anniversary of International Menstrual Hygiene Day, faith-based communities are also called to address the serious challenges faced by millions of women and girls who are marginalised due to natural bodily functions,” said Rev. Nicole Ashwood, WCC programme executive for Just Community of Women and Men.
Over the past three years, the WCC has been at the forefront of organising events and webinars to spread awareness about menstrual hygiene.
This year’s event will highlight a decade of advocacy achievements, examining the cultural and societal barriers that persist.
It will feature diverse viewpoints, including biblical, theological, sexual and reproductive health, and disability perspectives.
Additionally, there will be discussions on the implications for workplace and economic sustainability.
The webinar will focus on several key areas:
Increasing Awareness Within Faith-Based Communities:
Emphasising the role of churches and religious organisations in eradicating menstrual stigma and promoting gender equality
Eradicating Taboos:
Addressing and dismantling the cultural and societal barriers related to menstruation.
Enhancing Accessibility and Affordability:
Promoting access to menstrual health products and ensuring they are affordable for all.
Encouraging Support from Funding Partners:
Fostering collaboration and support from various funding partners to sustain menstrual health initiatives.
Fostering Global Commitment:
Encouraging a worldwide commitment to eliminating period-related discrimination and promoting menstrual health and hygiene.
This event underscores the WCC’s ongoing commitment to advocating for menstrual health and hygiene, reflecting on the progress made over the past decade and identifying areas that still need attention.
By bringing together a diverse group of experts and stakeholders, the webinar aims to create a robust dialogue that will drive further action and awareness.
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As the world marks Menstrual Hygiene Day, this webinar serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of addressing menstrual health issues, not only as a matter of hygiene but also as a fundamental aspect of gender equality and human dignity.
The WCC, along with its partners, continues to lead the charge in creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for women and girls worldwide.
