Length of paid parental leave for mother 1990

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	Norway	42 days
2	Afghanistan	0 days
3	Albania	0 days
4	Algeria	0 days
5	Angola	0 days
6	Antigua and Barbuda	0 days
7	Argentina	0 days
8	Armenia	0 days
9	Australia	0 days
10	Austria	0 days
11	Azerbaijan	0 days
12	Bahamas	0 days
13	Bahrain	0 days
14	Bangladesh	0 days
15	Barbados	0 days
16	Belarus	0 days
17	Belgium	0 days
18	Belize	0 days
19	Benin	0 days
20	Bhutan	0 days
21	Bolivia	0 days
22	Bosnia and Herzegovina	0 days
23	Botswana	0 days
24	Brazil	0 days
25	Brunei Darussalam	0 days
26	Bulgaria	0 days
27	Burkina Faso	0 days
28	Burundi	0 days
29	Cabo Verde	0 days
30	Cambodia	0 days
31	Cameroon	0 days
32	Canada	0 days
33	Central African Republic	0 days
34	Chad	0 days
35	Chile	0 days
36	China	0 days
37	China, Hong Kong SAR	0 days
38	Colombia	0 days
39	Comoros	0 days
40	Congo	0 days
41	Congo, Democratic Republic of the	0 days
42	Costa Rica	0 days
43	Côte d'Ivoire	0 days
44	Croatia	0 days
45	Cyprus	0 days
46	Czech Republic	0 days
47	Denmark	0 days
48	Djibouti	0 days
49	Dominica	0 days
50	Dominican Republic	0 days
51	Ecuador	0 days
52	Egypt	0 days
53	El Salvador	0 days
54	Equatorial Guinea	0 days
55	Eritrea	0 days
56	Estonia	0 days
57	Eswatini	0 days
58	Ethiopia	0 days
59	Fiji	0 days
60	Finland	0 days
61	France	0 days
62	Gabon	0 days
63	Gambia	0 days
64	Georgia	0 days
65	Germany	0 days
66	Ghana	0 days
67	Greece	0 days
68	Grenada	0 days
69	Guatemala	0 days
70	Guinea	0 days
71	Guinea-Bissau	0 days
72	Guyana	0 days
73	Haiti	0 days
74	Honduras	0 days
75	Hungary	0 days
76	Iceland	0 days
77	India	0 days
78	Indonesia	0 days
79	Iran	0 days
80	Iraq	0 days
81	Ireland	0 days
82	Israel	0 days
83	Italy	0 days
84	Jamaica	0 days
85	Japan	0 days
86	Jordan	0 days
87	Kazakhstan	0 days
88	Kenya	0 days
89	Kiribati	0 days
90	Kosovo	0 days
91	Kuwait	0 days
92	Kyrgyzstan	0 days
93	Laos	0 days
94	Latvia	0 days
95	Lebanon	0 days
96	Lesotho	0 days
97	Liberia	0 days
98	Libya	0 days
99	Lithuania	0 days
100	Luxembourg	0 days
101	Madagascar	0 days
102	Malawi	0 days
103	Malaysia	0 days
104	Maldives	0 days
105	Mali	0 days
106	Malta	0 days
107	Marshall Islands	0 days
108	Mauritania	0 days
109	Mauritius	0 days
110	Mexico	0 days
111	Micronesia (Fed. States of)	0 days
112	Mongolia	0 days
113	Montenegro	0 days
114	Morocco	0 days
115	Mozambique	0 days
116	Myanmar	0 days
117	Namibia	0 days
118	Nepal	0 days
119	Netherlands	0 days
120	New Zealand	0 days
121	Nicaragua	0 days
122	Niger	0 days
123	Nigeria	0 days
124	North Macedonia	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 metric reflecting global societal values, economic policies, and family well-being. In 1990, the disparity in parental leave policies across countries highlighted significant differences in how nations prioritized family health and workforce participation. This article delves into the global statistics from that year, providing insights into the implications of these variations.

Global Comparisons in Parental Leave Policies

In 1990, paid parental leave for mothers varied dramatically across the globe, with significant implications for family dynamics and employment. Norway emerged as a leader, offering 42 days of paid leave, a stark contrast to many other nations that provided none. With 189 countries reporting data, the average length of paid parental leave was strikingly low at just 0.22 days, emphasizing the global disparity in support for maternal leave. This difference between nations like Norway and those providing no paid leave, such as the United States and Australia, underscores how cultural and policy priorities shape family-centric workplace policies.

Socio-Economic Implications

The availability of paid parental leave directly impacts socio-economic factors, including workforce participation rates among women and overall family well-being. Countries with generous leave policies, like Norway, tend to support higher female participation in the workforce, fostering a more gender-balanced economic environment. Conversely, countries offering no paid leave risk exacerbating gender inequalities, as mothers might be forced to choose between employment and caregiving. This lack of support can also strain household finances, particularly in single-parent or lower-income families, which rely more heavily on both parents’ income.

Historical Context of Parental Leave

Understanding the historical context of 1990's parental leave policies requires examining the legislative and cultural shifts leading up to that point. In the decades prior, many Western nations began recognizing the importance of family leave, responding to changing gender roles and increasing demands for gender equality in the workforce. Norway's progressive policy reflects a broader Scandinavian trend toward social welfare and family support, whereas the lack of leave in countries like the United States highlights a different set of economic priorities focused more on market flexibility.

Impact on Family Dynamics

Paid parental leave not only affects economic conditions but also significantly influences family dynamics and child development. Studies have shown that sufficient parental leave supports better health outcomes for both mothers and infants, reduces stress, and improves bonding. In countries with no formalized leave, families must often rely on informal support networks or incur additional costs for childcare, potentially impacting child development negatively. The 1990 data reveals how variations in parental leave can drive differences in family structures and societal expectations of motherhood and caregiving.

Policy Reforms and Future Trends

Despite the limited change in paid parental leave policies in 1990, the subsequent decades have seen a push for reform. Many countries began recognizing the need to balance economic and social imperatives by adopting more comprehensive leave policies. Trends towards longer and more inclusive leave policies have been driven by the growing body of research demonstrating the wide-ranging benefits of such policies. As we look towards the future, the increasing focus on gender equality and family support is likely to continue shaping paid parental leave policies, encouraging global convergence towards more supportive systems.

In conclusion, the length of paid parental leave for mothers in 1990 provided a snapshot of how different countries valued family welfare and gender equality. While some nations, like Norway, were early adopters of comprehensive support, others lagged behind, reflecting broader economic and cultural priorities. Understanding these differences offers crucial insights into the ongoing global conversation about work-life balance and the role of policy in shaping family and societal well-being.

Insights by country

Bahamas

In 1990, the Bahamas ranked 12th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with a notable value of 0 days. This statistic reflects the limited support provided to new mothers in terms of maternity benefits during this period.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to various factors, including economic constraints, cultural attitudes towards gender roles, and the prioritization of workforce participation over family support systems. During this time, many women faced challenges balancing work and family responsibilities without the safety net of paid leave.

Interestingly, the Bahamas' regional context is also significant, as many Caribbean nations similarly lacked comprehensive parental leave policies, which may have influenced legislative approaches and social attitudes towards family benefits at the time.

Azerbaijan

In 1990, Azerbaijan ranked 11th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, which was recorded at 0 days. This statistic indicates that, during this period, mothers in Azerbaijan were not entitled to any paid leave following childbirth, reflecting a significant gap in parental support compared to many other nations.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to various socio-economic factors, including the historical context of Azerbaijan during the late Soviet era, which may have impacted labor policies and family support systems. Additionally, the transition to independence in 1991 and the subsequent economic challenges faced by the country may have limited the government's capacity to implement comprehensive family support measures.

Globally, many countries have recognized the importance of parental leave in promoting child health and well-being, and Azerbaijan's lack of provision in 1990 highlights a critical area for policy development aimed at improving family welfare and gender equality in the workforce.

Australia

In 1990, Australia ranked 9th out of 189 countries regarding the provision of paid parental leave for mothers, with a recorded length of 0 days. This statistic reflects the absence of a national paid parental leave scheme during that period, highlighting a significant gap in support for new mothers in the workforce.

The lack of paid parental leave was influenced by various factors, including prevailing societal norms regarding gender roles, economic considerations, and the political landscape of the time. In the absence of government-mandated leave, many families relied on private arrangements or minimal unpaid leave, which often placed financial strain on new parents.

Interestingly, the situation surrounding parental leave in Australia has evolved considerably since 1990, with the introduction of paid parental leave schemes in subsequent years, reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of supporting families and promoting gender equality in the workplace.

Canada

In 1990, Canada ranked 32nd out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with a record of 0 days of paid leave. This statistic reflects a period when Canada's policies on parental leave were not as developed as in some other nations, especially in comparison to Scandinavian countries, which offered significantly longer paid leave periods.

The lack of paid parental leave during this time can be attributed to several factors, including a prevailing economic climate that prioritized labor market participation and a limited public policy focus on family support initiatives. Additionally, cultural attitudes towards gender roles and parental responsibilities may have influenced the government's decisions regarding maternal benefits.

It is noteworthy that in the years following 1990, Canada began to reform its parental leave policies, eventually leading to the introduction of the Employment Insurance (EI) maternity and parental benefits program, which significantly improved support for parents in the workforce.

Cabo Verde

In 1990, Cabo Verde ranked 29th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, which was recorded at 0 days. This statistic indicates that there was no formal provision for paid maternity leave during this period, reflecting broader social and economic challenges faced by the nation.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to various factors, including the economic constraints of a developing nation, limited government resources, and a focus on immediate labor needs over social welfare policies. Additionally, Cabo Verde's historical context, which includes colonial legacy and subsequent struggles for economic development, may have influenced the country's ability to implement comprehensive family support policies.

Interestingly, as of the early 21st century, many countries have moved towards enhancing parental leave policies to support family well-being and workforce participation, illustrating a global trend towards recognizing the importance of parental support in early childhood development.

Dominica

In 1990, Dominica ranked 49th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, which was recorded at 0 days. This statistic highlights a significant gap in parental support as compared to many other nations, where extended periods of paid leave are often provided to promote maternal and child health.

The absence of paid parental leave in Dominica during this period can be attributed to various factors, including economic constraints, limited governmental policies on social welfare, and a focus on immediate economic productivity over family support systems. Such a lack of support may have implications for child development and maternal health, as paid leave is associated with better outcomes in both areas.

Globally, the trend towards providing paid parental leave has gained momentum, with many countries recognizing its importance in fostering family well-being and gender equality in the workplace. As of 2023, many nations have implemented policies that offer substantial paid leave to new parents, reflecting a growing commitment to family-oriented labor policies.

Italy

In 1990, Italy ranked 83rd out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, providing a total of 0 days of paid leave. This statistic reflects a period when Italy's social policies concerning maternity leave were significantly less developed compared to many other nations.

The lack of paid parental leave in Italy during this time can be attributed to various socio-economic factors, including a strong traditional emphasis on familial roles and a labor market that did not prioritize parental support. Moreover, cultural norms often placed the responsibility of child-rearing more heavily on women, which may have influenced policy decisions regarding maternity benefits.

Interestingly, while Italy has made strides in improving parental leave policies in subsequent years, the 1990 statistic highlights the historical challenges faced by working mothers in the country, underscoring the ongoing evolution of labor rights and gender equality in the workplace.

Georgia

In 1990, Georgia ranked 64th out of 189 countries in terms of the length of paid parental leave for mothers, providing 0 days of paid maternity leave. This lack of paid parental leave reflects broader socio-economic conditions and policies that were in place during a period of significant political and economic transition following the dissolution of the Soviet Union.

The absence of paid leave can be attributed to various factors, including the country's economic challenges and the need for labor market participation to boost productivity in a struggling economy. Additionally, the political instability and social restructuring during this time may have hindered the implementation of comprehensive family support policies.

Interestingly, many countries around the world have since recognized the importance of paid parental leave in promoting child health and well-being, as well as supporting working mothers. In contemporary discussions, paid parental leave continues to be a vital topic in ensuring gender equality in the workplace and supporting families.

Belarus

In 1990, Belarus ranked 16th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with an actual value of 0 days. This statistic indicates that mothers in Belarus did not receive any paid leave during this period, which may reflect the socio-economic conditions and policies of the time, particularly in the context of the Soviet Union's influence.

The lack of paid parental leave can be attributed to several factors, including the economic structure of Belarus, which was transitioning from a centrally planned economy to a market-oriented one. Additionally, the societal norms and policies surrounding family and work during the late 1980s and early 1990s often prioritized economic productivity over family support systems.

Interestingly, this statistic highlights a broader trend in Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union, where maternal leave policies were often less generous compared to those in Western Europe. The focus on labor force participation without adequate support for families may have contributed to challenges in child-rearing and maternal health during this transitional period.

Eritrea

Eritrea ranked 55th out of 189 countries in terms of paid parental leave for mothers in the year 1990, with a duration of 0 days. This statistic indicates that there was no formal provision for paid parental leave for mothers during this period, which highlights significant gaps in maternity benefits compared to global standards.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to several factors, including the country's ongoing struggles with economic challenges, political instability, and a prioritization of national service commitments over social welfare policies. These conditions may have hindered the establishment of comprehensive family support systems.

In many countries, paid parental leave is seen as essential for promoting maternal and child health, as well as supporting family cohesion. The lack of such provisions in Eritrea could have implications for both social welfare and gender equality, as it may affect women's ability to balance work and family responsibilities effectively.

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