Menstrual rights are human rights - a qualitative study about period poverty among homeless Roma in Stockholm

Abstract: In the past decade, period poverty has gained more attention in international research. However, in Sweden the issue is still neglected which results in a complete absence of scientific research. Period poverty is not exclusively a phenomenon in low-income countries but is present around the globe. In Sweden, a high-income country, marginalized groups, such as Babadag Roma are affected the most. The aim of this study is to generate scientific knowledge about period poverty among a marginalized group residing in Stockholm, as well as the work carried out by NGOs from a human rights perspective. Data was gathered through nine individual, semi-structured interviews with people who work with Babadag Roma in various social centers in Stockholm. The workers’ experiences and knowledge are the base of the data. The data is analysed with three theoretical frameworks: the concept of stigma, feminist perspectives and social support theory. The workers identify period poverty among Babadag Roma by menstrual illiteracy and the need for menstrual hygiene products. The social centers provide such products, bathrooms, shower and laundry facilities and menstrual education. By this, the social centers promote the human rights of dignity, health, water and sanitation, gender equality, education, an adequate standard of living and participation in society and cultural life. Furthermore, menstrual taboo and stigma are prevalent and prevent Babadag Roma from talking about menstrual health, especially when men are present. This research can be seen as the starting point for hopefully more studies about period poverty in Sweden in the future.