Taiwan prison 'period poverty' highlighted, inmates get one pad daily

Taiwanese legislator Fan Yun has raised concerns about "period poverty" affecting female inmates in correctional facilities, where some individuals reportedly receive only one sanitary pad per day. This scarcity not only heightens the risk of infection but also creates social pressures, leading to borrowing and exchange of essential items.

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Someone can only use one sanitary pad a day, using toilet paper to supplement, and getting by.

Fan Yun emphasized that sanitary products are basic necessities for inmates, yet many face shortages due to insufficient family support or lack of access to personal funds. She cited accounts of women using toilet paper as a substitute and the potential for bullying among those who must borrow supplies. The legislator called for free provision of sanitary products to female inmates, integrated into the "Prison Administration Act" revisions, to uphold basic human rights and dignity.

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Borrowing is something that must be repaid, which can put economic pressure on disadvantaged inmates and even lead to bullying.

Lin Hsien-ming, director-general of the Ministry of Justice's Agency of Corrections, acknowledged the issue. He stated that while inmates can purchase supplies through prison cooperatives, the agency will first address the situation through administrative actions to ensure basic needs are met. He noted that incorporating such provisions into law would require legislative amendment, but immediate administrative steps will be taken to improve conditions for female inmates.

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We will first use administrative measures to inventory and improve, ensuring the basic needs of female inmates are met.