Saint-Ouen, in Seine-Saint-Denis, became the first city in France on Monday to try menstrual leave.
The mayor of Saint-Ouen (PS), Karim Bouamrane, declared that “of the 2,000 people who work for the city, we have 60% of women. It was while discussing with these agents that I realized that half of them suffered in silence. A subject put aside, otherwise taboo”.
“I am proud that Saint-Ouen has initiated a national movement”
Menstrual leave was put in place on Monday, and a deliberation will be presented at the municipal council on April 17.
A pride for the mayor of Saint-Ouen: “Strong decisions had to be taken to relieve them. I am proud that Saint-Ouen has initiated a national movement, for a concrete step forward for women’s rights”.
To be precise, the municipality will use the device of the special authorization of absence. City agents will have the possibility of taking up to two days off, adjusting their schedule or working from home, without any waiting days being deducted from them. For this, all you need is a medical certificate attesting to the illness or painful periods.
In a letter addressed to the President of the Republic, Emmanuel Macron, Mr. Bouamrane wishes that “France officially recognizes and applies menstrual leave, through a bill”. Some French companies offer their employees the possibility of taking “periodic leave”.
For example, the furniture manufacturer Louis Design thus offers six, ten or twelve days of additional paid leave per year to employees suffering from painful periods.