The UN’s sexual and reproductive health agency, UNFPA, on Wednesday appointed supermodel, philanthropist, and impact investor Natalia Vodianova as its newest Goodwill Ambassador, in an effort to empower women and girls, including fighting stigma surrounding menstruation.
“For too long, society’s approach to menstruation and women’s health has been defined by taboo and stigma”, said Ms. Vodianova, stressing that the situation “has undermined the most basic needs and rights of women.”
Today, we’re very excited to announce that supermodel and philanthropist @NataSupernova has been appointed as a @UNFPA Goodwill Ambassador 🧡
Learn more and join us in welcoming her to the @UN family: https://t.co/6B9I2X2tb5 #StandUp4HumanRights pic.twitter.com/PuDYRiRDfy
— UNFPA (@UNFPA) February 24, 2021
In her new role with UNFPA, officially known as the UN Population Fund, Ms. Vodianova will seek to help culturally redefine menstruation, as a normal bodily function.
On any given day, more than 800 million women and girls aged 15 to 49 are actively menstruating. In many countries, taboos surrounding the cycle leaves girls vulnerable and can even be life-threatening, says UNFPA, as they are excluded from public life, denied opportunities, sanitation and basic health needs.