Period poverty and the Right to Education in South Africa

Abstract

As more and more research proved that globally, there is a correlation between menstruation and school attendance; pressure has mounted on states to recognize that firstly, period poverty does not only mean the inability of one accessing menstrual products but rather it also includes, the lack of appropriate sanitation, infrastructure and or the lack of knowledge around menstruation. Secondly, the stigma and taboo surrounding menstruation means that one must always be extra careful not to be seen menstruating which leads to emotional and mental stress coupled with physical discomfort and pain. All these factors contribute to menstruators’ rights to education and to dignity, as they are unable to fully participate in school and therefore, affecting their personal development in the long run. It is thus in light of the above, that there is a need to understand the obligations states have towards the eradication of period poverty, particularly in the context of schools. This can only be achieved by examining South Africa’s national and international commitments in terms of legislation and the treaties supported by the state. In this research, the focus is on South Africa and its legal obligations in relation to period poverty in the context of education.