Length of paid parental leave for mother 1991

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

In 1991, the length of paid parental leave for mothers was a crucial social metric reflecting global attitudes towards family well-being and gender equality in the workforce. This statistic highlights the varying approaches countries take toward supporting new mothers, which in turn affects societal norms, economic participation, and family health. The diverse policies adopted across the world offer a glimpse into how societies prioritize maternal health and family life.

Global Overview of Paid Parental Leave in 1991

Paid parental leave for mothers in 1991 varied dramatically across countries, with a startling disparity from 0 to 42 days. Out of 189 countries with available data, Norway stood out with the maximum value of 42 days of paid leave, highlighting its progressive stance on family support. In stark contrast, a significant majority of countries, including the United States, Australia, and most developing nations, reported no paid leave at all. This stark divide underscores the differing levels of prioritization and investment in maternal and child welfare.

Societal Impact and Workforce Participation

The presence or absence of paid parental leave has profound implications on societal structures and workforce dynamics. In countries like Norway, where paid leave is substantial, there is a notable encouragement for women to participate in the workforce while balancing family responsibilities. This supportive policy can lead to higher female labor force participation rates and a more equitable division of childcare duties between parents. Conversely, in countries offering no paid leave, mothers may face increased pressure to return to work prematurely, potentially leading to adverse health outcomes for both mother and child, and reinforcing traditional gender roles.

Regional Contrasts and Ideological Divides

Examining the data from a regional perspective reveals distinct patterns influenced by both economic capability and cultural ideologies. European countries, generally characterized by more comprehensive social welfare systems, tend to offer more extended leave periods, reflecting an ideological commitment to gender equality and family support. Meanwhile, many countries in Africa, Asia, and the Americas offered no paid leave, reflecting either economic constraints or different cultural priorities where extended family networks might traditionally support new mothers without state intervention. This regional contrast not only highlights economic disparities but also differing cultural norms regarding family and work.

Policy Evolution and Historical Context

The year 1991 was a crucial period in the evolution of parental leave policies. The relatively low global average of 0.22 days, combined with a median of 0, illustrates that comprehensive paid parental leave was not yet a global norm. However, the policies of countries like Norway, which led the way with 42 days of leave, serve as early examples of a policy trend that would gain momentum in later decades. These pioneering policies laid the groundwork for future expansions in parental leave rights, as international organizations and advocacy groups began to push for greater support for working mothers worldwide.

Reflections and Future Projections

Reflecting on the state of paid parental leave for mothers in 1991 provides valuable insights into ongoing discussions about work-life balance and gender equality. While the data shows a significant lack of paid leave in many parts of the world during this period, it also marks the beginning of a shift towards recognizing the importance of supporting new families. As countries continue to develop economically and socially, the trend towards more generous parental leave policies is likely to continue, driven by increased awareness of the benefits such policies bring to society, economies, and family well-being.

In conclusion, the length of paid parental leave for mothers in 1991 serves as a critical indicator of global social policy trends and the prioritization of family support systems. The disparities observed highlight the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead for countries striving to balance economic growth with social equity and familial support. As history unfolds, these early statistics will serve as benchmarks for progress in creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for working families worldwide.

Insights by country

Germany

In 1991, Germany ranked 65th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, offering a total of 0 days of paid leave. This statistic reflected a period when Germany was undergoing significant social and economic changes, particularly following the reunification of East and West Germany in 1990.

The lack of paid parental leave at this time can be attributed to various factors, including the prevailing economic conditions and the country's focus on labor market policies that did not prioritize family support systems. Additionally, traditional gender roles and societal expectations around motherhood may have influenced the limited provisions for parental leave.

In contrast, many other European countries were beginning to implement more progressive family policies that included substantial parental leave, highlighting a disparity in social welfare approaches across the continent during this period.

Peru

In 1991, Peru ranked 131 out of 189 countries in terms of paid parental leave for mothers, with a concerning 0 days of leave available. This lack of paid parental leave reflects broader socio-economic challenges and policy limitations in the country during this period.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to various factors, including economic instability and political challenges that Peru faced in the late 20th century. These issues often led to limited government investment in social welfare programs, including those supporting families and mothers.

Furthermore, the low ranking in paid parental leave highlights a significant gap in gender equality and support for working mothers in Peru, which has been a continuing concern in various global indices. In contrast, many countries have progressively expanded parental leave policies to promote better work-life balance and child welfare.

Indonesia

In 1991, Indonesia ranked 78th out of 189 countries in terms of paid parental leave for mothers, with a total of 0 days allocated for this purpose. This lack of statutory paid leave reflects broader issues regarding gender equality and women's rights within the country during that period.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to a combination of economic factors, cultural norms, and governmental policies that traditionally prioritize labor market participation over family support systems. In many sectors, especially informal employment, there has historically been little provision for maternity leave, which can adversely affect women's health and their ability to balance work and family life.

Moreover, the situation in Indonesia contrasts sharply with many other nations that offer substantial maternity leave, highlighting a significant disparity in social welfare policies. As of 2023, many countries have recognized the importance of supporting new mothers through paid leave, a step that Indonesia may have gradually begun to adopt in subsequent years.

Armenia

In 1991, Armenia ranked 8th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with a total of 0 days allocated for such leave. This remarkably low figure reflects the socio-economic upheaval and political instability following the dissolution of the Soviet Union, which had previously provided a more structured support system for families.

The absence of paid parental leave in Armenia during this period can be attributed to numerous factors, including a transition to a market economy, the prioritization of economic recovery over social welfare programs, and the overall challenges of establishing a new governmental framework. The lack of support for maternal leave may have had significant implications for women's health and child development during a critical time in the nation's history.

Interestingly, the global trend in the early 1990s was towards increasing support for parental leave, with many countries recognizing the importance of maternal health and child welfare. In contrast, Armenia's situation highlights the complexities and challenges faced by post-Soviet states in balancing economic growth with social responsibility.

Japan

In 1991, Japan ranked 85th 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 leave policies compared to many other nations, reflecting a conservative approach to family and workforce dynamics during this period.

The lack of paid parental leave can be attributed to various cultural and economic factors, including traditional gender roles that emphasize male breadwinning and female homemaking. Additionally, during the early 1990s, Japan was experiencing economic challenges, which may have influenced governmental policies regarding labor and family support.

In comparison, many countries had already begun to implement more progressive parental leave policies by this time, recognizing the importance of supporting families and promoting gender equality in the workplace. This disparity in policy could have long-term implications for family welfare and gender equity in Japan.

Jamaica

In 1991, Jamaica ranked 84th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, offering a total of 0 days. This lack of paid parental leave reflects broader socio-economic conditions and governmental policies that did not prioritize family welfare, particularly in terms of maternal health and support.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to several factors, including economic constraints, cultural attitudes toward gender roles, and limited legislative frameworks that support working mothers. At the time, many Jamaican women faced challenges balancing work and family responsibilities without state-supported financial assistance, which could impede both maternal health and child development.

In addition to this statistic, it is important to note that the conversation around parental leave has evolved significantly over the ensuing decades, with many countries recognizing the importance of supporting new parents in their early stages of child-rearing. This recognition is crucial for promoting gender equality and ensuring the well-being of families.

France

In 1991, France ranked 61 out of 189 countries in terms of the length of paid parental leave for mothers, offering a total of 0 days of paid leave. This statistic reflects a significant gap in support for new mothers during a crucial period of early child development.

The absence of paid parental leave in France during this year can be attributed to various social and economic factors, including a focus on labor market participation and the belief that financial independence for mothers should take precedence over extended leave policies. At that time, societal norms were also evolving, with increasing emphasis on women's roles in the workforce.

Interestingly, France has since made substantial progress in parental leave policies, with the introduction of various measures to support working parents, reflecting a broader trend in many countries towards recognizing the importance of parental involvement in early childhood.

South Korea

In 1991, South Korea ranked 158th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with an alarming 0 days of paid leave available. This lack of support for new mothers was reflective of broader societal norms and economic conditions that prioritized workforce participation over family welfare.

The absence of paid parental leave during this period can be attributed to several factors, including a strong emphasis on rapid economic growth, traditional gender roles, and insufficient government policies aimed at supporting families. Additionally, South Korea's labor market was characterized by a high degree of job security and a work-centric culture, which often sidelined considerations for parental leave.

It is noteworthy that this situation has evolved significantly since then, as South Korea has since implemented more supportive policies, reflecting changing societal attitudes towards family and work-life balance. Nonetheless, the statistic from 1991 serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by working mothers in the country during that era.

Argentina

In 1991, Argentina ranked 7th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, a position underscored by the notable statistic that mothers were entitled to 0 days of paid leave. This lack of paid parental leave can be attributed to various socio-economic factors, including the country's economic instability during the late 20th century and prevailing cultural attitudes towards gender roles and family responsibilities.

The absence of paid leave has significant implications for maternal health and child welfare, as well as broader social equity, affecting women's participation in the workforce. During this period, Argentina was grappling with economic challenges, which may have influenced policymakers' decisions to limit support for parental leave initiatives.

Interestingly, similar trends were observed in various Latin American countries at that time, reflecting a regional pattern of limited support for working mothers. Over the following decades, many countries, including Argentina, began to reform parental leave policies to better support families and promote gender equality in the workplace.

Mali

In 1991, Mali ranked 105 out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with an alarming 0 days of paid leave available. This lack of parental leave reflects broader socio-economic challenges within the country, where traditional norms, economic constraints, and limited government support for family policies have historically limited maternal welfare initiatives.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to several factors, including high levels of poverty, a predominately informal labor market, and cultural practices that prioritize immediate economic contributions over family support systems. These conditions often leave new mothers without the necessary time to recover and bond with their infants, potentially impacting maternal and child health outcomes.

Relatedly, other countries in Africa have also faced similar challenges, but many have since improved their maternity leave policies, reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of supporting families. As of the early 1990s, maternal health and welfare were often underemphasized in national policy frameworks, contributing to the low ranking of Mali in this critical area.

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