The Spanish parliament has passed legislation that expands abortion and transgender rights for teenagers while making Spain the first country in Europe to entitle workers to paid menstrual leave. The changes mean that 16- and 17-year-olds can now access abortion without parental consent and Period products will now be offered free in schools and prisons.

Additionally, the right to have an abortion in a state hospital has been enshrined in law and transgender people are now able to change their legally registered gender without medical supervision. The legislation has faced strong opposition from right-wing parties that form Spain’s main opposition bloc.

Good for you Spain. Bravo! Let’s hope more countries finally follow the example in the future.