Length of paid parental leave for mother 1970

Discover how the length of paid parental leave for mothers varies by country, impacting family well-being and workforce participation. Explore the statistics that highlight this critical social issue.

189 data points•Updated 11/26/2025•World•Women, Business and the Law, World Bank (WB)•

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Complete Data Rankings

Rank
1	Afghanistan	0 days
2	Albania	0 days
3	Algeria	0 days
4	Angola	0 days
5	Antigua and Barbuda	0 days
6	Argentina	0 days
7	Armenia	0 days
8	Australia	0 days
9	Austria	0 days
10	Azerbaijan	0 days
11	Bahamas	0 days
12	Bahrain	0 days
13	Bangladesh	0 days
14	Barbados	0 days
15	Belarus	0 days
16	Belgium	0 days
17	Belize	0 days
18	Benin	0 days
19	Bhutan	0 days
20	Bolivia	0 days
21	Bosnia and Herzegovina	0 days
22	Botswana	0 days
23	Brazil	0 days
24	Brunei Darussalam	0 days
25	Bulgaria	0 days
26	Burkina Faso	0 days
27	Burundi	0 days
28	Cabo Verde	0 days
29	Cambodia	0 days
30	Cameroon	0 days
31	Canada	0 days
32	Central African Republic	0 days
33	Chad	0 days
34	Chile	0 days
35	China	0 days
36	China, Hong Kong SAR	0 days
37	Colombia	0 days
38	Comoros	0 days
39	Congo	0 days
40	Congo, Democratic Republic of the	0 days
41	Costa Rica	0 days
42	Côte d'Ivoire	0 days
43	Croatia	0 days
44	Cyprus	0 days
45	Czech Republic	0 days
46	Denmark	0 days
47	Djibouti	0 days
48	Dominica	0 days
49	Dominican Republic	0 days
50	Ecuador	0 days
51	Egypt	0 days
52	El Salvador	0 days
53	Equatorial Guinea	0 days
54	Eritrea	0 days
55	Estonia	0 days
56	Eswatini	0 days
57	Ethiopia	0 days
58	Fiji	0 days
59	Finland	0 days
60	France	0 days
61	Gabon	0 days
62	Gambia	0 days
63	Georgia	0 days
64	Germany	0 days
65	Ghana	0 days
66	Greece	0 days
67	Grenada	0 days
68	Guatemala	0 days
69	Guinea	0 days
70	Guinea-Bissau	0 days
71	Guyana	0 days
72	Haiti	0 days
73	Honduras	0 days
74	Hungary	0 days
75	Iceland	0 days
76	India	0 days
77	Indonesia	0 days
78	Iran	0 days
79	Iraq	0 days
80	Ireland	0 days
81	Israel	0 days
82	Italy	0 days
83	Jamaica	0 days
84	Japan	0 days
85	Jordan	0 days
86	Kazakhstan	0 days
87	Kenya	0 days
88	Kiribati	0 days
89	Kosovo	0 days
90	Kuwait	0 days
91	Kyrgyzstan	0 days
92	Laos	0 days
93	Latvia	0 days
94	Lebanon	0 days
95	Lesotho	0 days
96	Liberia	0 days
97	Libya	0 days
98	Lithuania	0 days
99	Luxembourg	0 days
100	Madagascar	0 days
101	Malawi	0 days
102	Malaysia	0 days
103	Maldives	0 days
104	Mali	0 days
105	Malta	0 days
106	Marshall Islands	0 days
107	Mauritania	0 days
108	Mauritius	0 days
109	Mexico	0 days
110	Micronesia (Fed. States of)	0 days
111	Mongolia	0 days
112	Montenegro	0 days
113	Morocco	0 days
114	Mozambique	0 days
115	Myanmar	0 days
116	Namibia	0 days
117	Nepal	0 days
118	Netherlands	0 days
119	New Zealand	0 days
120	Nicaragua	0 days
121	Niger	0 days
122	Nigeria	0 days
123	North Macedonia	0 days
124	Norway	0 days
125	Oman	0 days
126	Pakistan	0 days
127	Palau	0 days
128	Panama	0 days
129	Papua New Guinea	0 days
130	Paraguay	0 days
131	Peru	0 days
132	Philippines	0 days
133	Poland	0 days
134	Portugal	0 days
135	Puerto Rico	0 days
136	Qatar	0 days
137	Republic of Moldova	0 days
138	Romania	0 days
139	Russia	0 days
140	Rwanda	0 days
141	Saint Kitts and Nevis	0 days
142	Saint Lucia	0 days
143	Saint Vincent and the Grenadines	0 days
144	Samoa	0 days
145	San Marino	0 days
146	Sao Tome and Principe	0 days
147	Saudi Arabia	0 days
148	Senegal	0 days
149	Serbia	0 days
150	Seychelles	0 days
151	Sierra Leone	0 days
152	Singapore	0 days
153	Slovakia	0 days
154	Slovenia	0 days
155	Solomon Islands	0 days
156	Somalia	0 days
157	South Africa	0 days
158	South Korea	0 days
159	South Sudan	0 days
160	Spain	0 days
161	Sri Lanka	0 days
162	State of Palestine	0 days
163	Sudan	0 days
164	Suriname	0 days
165	Sweden	0 days
166	Switzerland	0 days
167	Syrian Arab Republic	0 days
168	Tajikistan	0 days
169	Tanzania	0 days
170	Thailand	0 days
171	Timor-Leste	0 days
172	Togo	0 days
173	Tonga	0 days
174	Trinidad and Tobago	0 days
175	Tunisia	0 days
176	Turkey	0 days
177	Uganda	0 days
178	Ukraine	0 days
179	United Arab Emirates	0 days
180	United Kingdom	0 days
181	United States	0 days
182	Uruguay	0 days
183	Uzbekistan	0 days
184	Vanuatu	0 days
185	Venezuela	0 days
186	Vietnam	0 days
187	Yemen	0 days
188	Zambia	0 days
189	Zimbabwe	0 days

↑Top 10 Countries

Analysis: These countries represent the highest values in this dataset, showcasing significant scale and impact on global statistics.

↓Bottom 10 Countries

Context: These countries or territories have the lowest values, often due to geographic size, administrative status, or specific characteristics.

Analysis & Context

The length of paid parental leave for mothers is a critical measure that reflects a country's commitment to family well-being and gender equality in the workforce. In 1970, this metric highlighted a significant gap in social policy, as many nations had yet to establish formalized paid parental leave, which impacted women's participation in the workforce and family health. This article delves into the global statistics and trends surrounding paid parental leave for mothers in 1970, providing insight into the socio-economic landscape of that time.

Historical Context of 1970

In 1970, the concept of paid parental leave was still in its nascent stages globally. The era was marked by significant social and political changes, including the women's liberation movement, which advocated for equal rights and better working conditions. Despite these advances, data from 1970 shows that none of the 189 countries surveyed offered any paid parental leave for mothers. This absence highlights the early stage of policy development concerning family support systems. The zero value across the board indicates that governments had not yet recognized the need to balance work and family life through legislative measures.

Global Comparison and Patterns

Analyzing the global distribution of paid parental leave in 1970 reveals a uniform lack of policy across all continents. From Afghanistan to Zimbabwe, the statistics remain the same, with no country offering paid leave days to new mothers. This homogeneity underscores the widespread absence of institutional support for working mothers. The lack of variation suggests that the issue was not isolated to specific regions but was a global oversight of the time. This uniformity highlights a stark contrast to today's landscape, where parental leave is a standard aspect of employment benefits in many parts of the world.

Impact on Women in the Workforce

The absence of paid parental leave in 1970 had profound implications for women's participation in the workforce. Without paid leave, many women faced a difficult choice between career advancement and family responsibilities. This often resulted in women leaving their jobs to care for their newborns, thereby reducing their long-term earning potential and career growth. Furthermore, the lack of paid leave contributed to the perpetuation of gender inequality in professional environments, as men were typically not expected to take on primary caregiving roles. The data from 1970 serves as a historical benchmark illustrating the challenges women faced in balancing work and family life.

Evolution of Parental Leave Policies

The absence of paid parental leave in 1970 set the stage for significant policy changes in subsequent decades. The realization of the need for such policies grew alongside the increased participation of women in the workforce and the evolving understanding of gender equality. Over the years, many countries have adopted paid parental leave policies, recognizing their importance in promoting family well-being and economic stability. These policies have evolved to accommodate diverse family structures and promote shared parental responsibilities, reflecting a shift towards more equitable workforce participation.

Lessons from 1970 for Future Policy Development

The data from 1970 serves as a crucial lesson in the importance of developing comprehensive social policies that support working families. As nations continue to strive for gender equality and improved family health outcomes, the experiences of the past highlight the necessity of institutional support for parental responsibilities. Future policy development must consider the diverse needs of families and aim to create an inclusive environment where both mothers and fathers can balance work and family life effectively. By reflecting on the progress made since 1970, policymakers can build on past achievements to further enhance parental leave benefits, ensuring they meet the demands of modern society.

In conclusion, the global statistics of 1970 on paid parental leave for mothers reveal a time of minimal institutional support for working families. This historical context provides a baseline from which significant progress has been made, serving as a reminder of the ongoing journey towards comprehensive, equitable parental leave policies worldwide.

Insights by country

Lebanon

In 1970, Lebanon ranked 94th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with a provision of 0 days of paid leave. This statistic highlights the limited support for maternal health and family welfare in the country during this period.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to various factors, including economic challenges, cultural attitudes towards gender roles, and a lack of legislative frameworks that prioritize family support. During the 1970s, Lebanon was on the brink of the Civil War, which further complicated social policies and economic stability.

Globally, the trend for parental leave has evolved significantly since the 1970s, with many countries recognizing the importance of supporting mothers and families. Countries implementing paid parental leave have often seen benefits such as improved maternal and child health outcomes, higher workforce participation among women, and enhanced family bonding.

South Korea

In 1970, South Korea ranked 158th out of 189 countries for the length of paid parental leave for mothers, offering 0 days of paid leave. This lack of parental leave was indicative of the country's socio-economic landscape, which was characterized by rapid industrialization and a workforce that predominantly emphasized economic growth over social welfare.

The absence of paid parental leave during this period can be attributed to several factors, including a strong cultural emphasis on traditional gender roles, where women's primary responsibilities were seen as domestic, and a labor market focused on maximizing productivity amidst economic development. The notion of supporting working mothers through parental leave was not yet a priority for policymakers.

As a comparison, many countries at the time were beginning to recognize the importance of parental leave as a means to support family well-being and encourage workforce participation among women. This early neglect of parental leave policies in South Korea would later impact discussions and reforms in family and labor rights as the country evolved economically and socially.

Austria

In 1970, Austria ranked 9th out of 189 countries regarding the provision of paid parental leave for mothers, with a notable statistic of 0 days of paid leave available. This absence of paid leave reflects the socio-economic policies of the time, which did not prioritize parental leave as a fundamental worker's right.

The lack of paid parental leave in Austria during this period can be attributed to a combination of cultural norms and economic conditions that emphasized traditional family structures and labor market participation without the support of governmental policies aimed at extending parental benefits. The focus was often on the immediate economic contributions of workers rather than on family welfare.

It is interesting to note that many countries began to implement more comprehensive parental leave policies in the following decades, recognizing the importance of supporting families and promoting gender equality in both the workplace and home settings.

Iraq

In 1970, Iraq ranked 79th out of 189 countries concerning the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with an official duration of 0 days. This statistic highlights the lack of formal support for new mothers during a time when many countries were beginning to establish parental leave policies.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to several factors, including the socio-economic conditions of the time, political instability, and the prevailing cultural attitudes towards women's roles in society. The 1970s were marked by significant political upheaval in Iraq, which may have diverted attention from social welfare policies.

Interestingly, many countries in the region have historically faced similar challenges regarding maternal leave, often reflecting broader issues such as economic development and gender equality. As a result, Iraq's policy landscape in 1970 served as a reflection of both its national priorities and the global context regarding women's rights and labor reforms.

Eswatini

In 1970, Eswatini ranked 56th out of 189 countries concerning the length of paid parental leave for mothers, offering a total of 0 days. This lack of paid maternity leave reflects broader socio-economic conditions and labor policies prevalent in the country during that time.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to various factors, including the nation’s economic constraints, limited social welfare policies, and cultural norms regarding gender roles and family responsibilities. Eswatini, like many developing countries, faced challenges in implementing comprehensive labor rights and protections for workers.

It is noteworthy that as of 2023, many countries have made significant progress in extending parental leave, with some offering up to a year or more of paid leave. This shift highlights the evolving understanding of parental rights and child welfare in contemporary policy discussions.

Antigua and Barbuda

In 1970, Antigua and Barbuda ranked 5th among 189 countries for the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with an actual value of 0 days. This statistic indicates that, at that time, the country did not provide any formal paid leave for mothers following childbirth, reflecting broader trends in labor policies prevalent in many regions during the early 1970s.

The absence of paid parental leave in Antigua and Barbuda can be attributed to several factors, including economic conditions, societal norms regarding gender roles, and a lack of legislative frameworks to support maternity benefits. In many Caribbean nations during this period, economic challenges often led to limited social protections for workers, particularly for women.

Moreover, this statistic is indicative of a time when many countries were still developing their social welfare systems, which have evolved significantly in subsequent decades. Today, many nations recognize the importance of supporting new parents through paid leave, contributing to better health outcomes for mothers and infants alike.

Eritrea

In 1970, Eritrea ranked 54th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with a recorded value of 0 days. This statistic reflects the broader socio-economic and political context of the region during this period, characterized by conflict and instability due to the Eritrean War of Independence, which lasted from 1961 to 1991.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to limited governmental structures and resources, as the prevailing focus was on military engagement and national liberation efforts rather than on social welfare policies. Additionally, traditional societal norms often place the responsibility of child-rearing predominantly on women, which may have influenced the lack of formal support systems.

Interestingly, many countries worldwide were beginning to recognize and implement parental leave policies during this era, with a growing understanding of the importance of supporting families and promoting gender equality in the workforce. However, in Eritrea, the focus on independence and survival overshadowed such developments.

Lesotho

In 1970, Lesotho ranked 95 out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, which was recorded at 0 days. This lack of paid parental leave reflects the limited support systems available for mothers in the country during this period.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to several factors, including the economic conditions of Lesotho, which has historically struggled with high levels of poverty and unemployment. Additionally, cultural norms and policies regarding gender roles and family support may not have prioritized maternal leave, leading to insufficient legislative frameworks to support working mothers.

Globally, the trend towards paid parental leave has gained momentum since the 1970s, with many countries recognizing the importance of such policies for child development and maternal health. This stark contrast highlights the challenges faced by Lesotho in establishing comprehensive social welfare programs.

Bahrain

In 1970, Bahrain had a ranking of 12 out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, which was recorded at 0 days. This statistic reflects the socio-economic context of Bahrain during a period when the country was rapidly modernizing but had not yet established comprehensive parental leave policies.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to a variety of factors, including the nascent stage of women's rights in the workforce and a reliance on traditional family structures, where extended family often supported child-rearing. During this time, economic development was prioritized, and social welfare policies were not fully developed.

Interestingly, the lack of paid parental leave in Bahrain during 1970 contrasts with trends in many developed countries, which were beginning to implement more comprehensive maternity leave policies. The evolution of such policies in Bahrain has since progressed, reflecting broader global changes in societal attitudes toward parental leave and gender equality in the workplace.

Jordan

In 1970, Jordan ranked 85 out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, offering a total of 0 days. This lack of paid leave reflects the broader socio-economic conditions of the time, where traditional gender roles predominated and economic challenges limited the implementation of extensive social welfare policies.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to several factors, including a focus on economic development, limited resources, and cultural norms that may have prioritized immediate workforce participation over family support policies. Additionally, the pressures of a developing economy often meant that labor policies were not fully aligned with the needs of families.

Interestingly, many countries during this period were also grappling with similar issues, and it was not until decades later that paid parental leave became more widely recognized as a crucial component of family welfare and gender equality in the workplace.

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