Balochistan urged to adopt menstrual hygiene policy

Quetta, September 28th, 2026 - The Forum for Dignity Initiatives (FDI) has called on the Balochistan government to adopt a thorough menstrual hygiene policy, complete with dedicated annual funding, to guarantee essential hygiene facilities in schools, healthcare facilities, and public spaces throughout the province. This call was made during consultative meetings led by FDI Executive Director Uzma Yaqoob.

Yaqoob emphasized that women's menstrual hygiene has long been an area of public services receiving insufficient focus, even though it directly impacts a significant portion of the population. The absence of a comprehensive provincial policy and a clear framework has led to the inconsistent provision of basic facilities in schools, healthcare centers, and public institutions, with some locations equipped while others are deprived.

Yaqoob stressed that merely establishing infrastructure is not sufficient; maintenance and functionality must also be ensured. She highlighted that schools and public places should have secure and private washrooms, clean water, soap, efficient waste disposal systems, and designated spaces for rest when needed. Yaqoob stressed that a girl's education and school attendance should not be contingent upon whether her school possesses a functional and safe washroom.