The National Dialogue on Menstrual Health and Hygiene was organized by the Local Government Division, Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives in partnership with UNFPA, Uincef, Global Affairs Canada and Menstrual Health and Management Platform.
The event took place on June 4 in Dhaka and brought together over 150 representatives from different stakeholders to accelerate the nation's effort to eradicate menstrual poverty and protect the rights and dignity of women and girls, reads a press release.
The dialogue was attended by Muhammad Ibrahim, secretary of the Local Government Division, Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives (MoLGRD&C) as the chief guest, and Kristine Blokhus, UNFPA representative, and Sheldon Yett, UNICEF representative as special guests, focused on the theme of ‘Choice'.
The discussion explored the availability, accessibility, affordability, and quality of menstrual products, education and accountability mechanisms.
During the event, Kristine Blokhus, a UNFPA representative, stressed the significance of providing accurate information about menstruation and reproductive health.
She also emphasized the need to ensure the availability of menstrual products to empower girls in making informed decisions about their bodies, health, and well-being.
As the chief guest, Muhammad Ibrahim, secretary of Local Government Division, MoLGRD&C, highlighted the significance of promoting menstrual hygiene management, providing sanitary pads in schools, and educating about menstrual health.
He emphasized that these efforts foster inclusivity and empower women and girls to take charge of their well-being.
Ibrahim also emphasized the need to create a stigma-free environment that encourages open discussions about women's natural cycles and their menstrual needs.
Sheldon Yett, UNICEF representative, stressed the importance of gender-separated toilets in schools to empower girls to manage their menstruation safely and without shame or fear. He stated that every girl must have access to safe period products as well as information about puberty and menstruation.
"Continuing the national dialogues each year with different dimensions is vital," stressed Masaki Watabe, UNFPA deputy representative, while summarizing the event.
Providing women and girls with a comprehensive education in all settings, adequate sanitation facilities, a choice of menstrual products, and an emotionally and physically supportive environment is essential to ensure safe and dignified menstrual experiences.
The national dialogue on Menstrual Health and Hygiene will continue to serve as a platform for stakeholders to collaborate and share knowledge, with the aim of eradicating menstrual poverty in Bangladesh by 2030.
