CJI DY Chandrachud’s remarks at the National Law School Bangalore convocation brought menstruation and the challenges faced by women lawyers into a mainstream leadership conversation, offering lessons in inclusive leadership communication.

Menstrual health remains deeply unequal across the world. While conversations around menstruation have become more visible in parts of the Global North, stigma, inadequate sanitation, limited education and lack of affordable menstrual products continue to affect millions across the Global South.

Women’s empowerment cannot stop at social media posts and International Women’s Day messages. Leaders must prove their commitment through measurable action on representation, pay equity, inclusive hiring, menstrual and menopausal support, and workplace accountability.

Comprehensive sex education is about more than sexual health. In South Asia, educating boys about consent, communication, reproductive health, gender equality and respectful relationships can help challenge harmful gender norms and contribute to healthier families and more equitable societies.

Empowerment is often reduced to a development-sector buzzword, but Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak demonstrated what it can look like in practice. Through Sulabh International, he connected sanitation, education, vocational training and social reform to challenge entrenched inequalities and create opportunities for marginalised communities.