Montenegro adopts paid menstrual leave, prompting regional debate

Montenegro's parliament approved an amendment to the health‑insurance law that grants women two days of paid menstrual leave when they have a medically diagnosed condition such as secondary dysmenorrhea, endometriosis, polyps, fibroids or severe bleeding. The leave requires a doctor's certificate.

The legislation is the first of its kind in the Balkans and has ignited discussion in neighboring Serbia, where no comparable provision exists. Supporters argue it addresses a genuine health need, while critics fear it could stigmatise women or affect hiring decisions. The debate also references Spain's earlier national policy and similar, though rarely used, measures in Japan, South Korea, Indonesia and Taiwan.