Length of paid parental leave for mother 1994

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	63 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 a nation's commitment to supporting families and nurturing early childhood development. In 1994, this global statistic varied widely, with some countries offering extensive support, while others provided none. Understanding these variations offers insight into the socio-economic fabric and policy priorities of different nations.

Global Perspective on Paid Parental Leave in 1994

In 1994, the length of paid parental leave for mothers was recorded across 189 countries. The range was stark, with Norway at the forefront offering 63 days of paid leave, underscoring its robust social welfare policies. In contrast, a substantial number of countries, including developed and developing nations, provided no paid leave, highlighting significant disparities in global social policy.

On average, the length of paid parental leave for mothers was a mere 0.33 days globally, with the median at 0.00, reflecting the absence of paid leave in most countries. This lack of support may have profound implications on women's workforce participation and the economic well-being of families.

Regional Discrepancies in Parental Leave Policies

Analyzing the data from 1994 reveals notable regional discrepancies. European countries, particularly in the Nordic region, were more generous in offering paid parental leave. Norway, for example, set a high standard with its comprehensive policy, vastly contrasting with zero-day policies prevalent in much of Africa, Asia, and the Americas.

Such regional differences can often be attributed to varying levels of economic development and differing cultural attitudes towards gender roles and family support systems. In regions with limited economic resources, the capacity to fund parental leave may be constrained, while in wealthier nations, strong social welfare frameworks often support extended leave.

Policy Impacts on Family and Workforce Dynamics

The provision of paid parental leave has significant implications for both family well-being and workforce dynamics. In countries like Norway, where substantial leave is provided, mothers can better balance family responsibilities without compromising their career trajectories. This support can lead to higher workforce participation rates among women and contribute to gender parity in employment.

Conversely, in nations with no paid leave, mothers may face difficult choices between caring for their young children and maintaining employment, potentially leading to economic strain and reduced workforce participation. These policies, or lack thereof, can amplify gender inequalities and hinder overall economic growth.

Historical Context and Evolution

Understanding the historical context of parental leave policies provides insight into their development. The early 1990s were a period of increasing awareness and advocacy for parental rights, particularly in Western countries. However, the progression was uneven globally, with many countries yet to recognize parental leave as a legislative priority by 1994.

This year marked a pivotal moment for countries beginning to explore or expand their social policies. While some nations like Norway had already established robust parental leave systems, others were only starting to consider such measures. The landscape of parental leave policies during this time reflected broader socio-political developments and ideologies, influencing how quickly different regions adopted changes.

The economic and social consequences of inadequate parental leave policies are profound. Limited access to paid leave can adversely affect family income, especially for single-parent households, and can also contribute to increased gender wage gaps. Additionally, the lack of early life support can impact child development outcomes, affecting future educational and economic opportunities.

In contrast, countries with generous parental leave policies, such as Norway, demonstrate how state support can foster better health and well-being for both children and parents, leading to more sustainable socio-economic growth. Thus, the data from 1994 highlights the crucial role of governmental policies in shaping family and economic landscapes.

In summary, the 1994 statistics on the length of paid parental leave for mothers underscore significant global disparities. While some countries were at the forefront of progressive social policies, others lagged, reflecting a broader spectrum of economic capabilities and cultural priorities. These differences continue to influence global discussions on family welfare and gender equality, with lasting implications for societies worldwide.

Insights by country

Gabon

In 1994, Gabon ranked 62nd out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, offering a total of 0 days of paid leave. This statistic highlights a significant gap in parental support policies when compared to many other nations, where paid leave is a standard provision. The absence of paid parental leave may reflect broader socio-economic challenges and a lack of legislative support for family welfare programs.

Factors contributing to this statistic could include limited governmental resources, prioritization of other economic sectors, and a cultural context that may not emphasize parental leave as a critical social policy. Additionally, Gabon's economy, heavily reliant on oil, might have impacted the allocation of funds towards social welfare initiatives.

Globally, the trend towards paid parental leave has been gaining traction, with many countries recognizing its importance for child development and gender equality. In contrast, Gabon's policy during this period highlights the disparities in parental leave provisions that exist across different regions and economic contexts.

Belarus

In 1994, Belarus ranked 16th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, a statistic notable for its 0 days of paid leave. This absence of formal paid parental leave reflects a complex interplay of socio-economic factors, government policies, and the economic structure of Belarus following its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991.

The lack of paid parental leave can be attributed to the country's transitional economy, which faced significant challenges such as high inflation, unemployment, and a need for immediate economic productivity, prioritizing labor force participation over family support policies. Furthermore, during this period, many post-Soviet states were grappling with reforming their welfare systems, often leading to reduced social benefits.

Interestingly, while Belarus had no paid parental leave, other countries in the region were beginning to implement more inclusive family policies, recognizing the importance of supporting mothers and child development. This stark contrast highlights the varying approaches to family welfare across different nations during this transformative era.

Cabo Verde

In 1994, Cabo Verde ranked 29th out of 189 countries in terms of parental leave policies, with a reported length of 0 days of paid parental leave for mothers. This statistic highlights the lack of formal government support for new mothers in the country during this period, which can have significant implications for maternal and child health.

The absence of paid parental leave in Cabo Verde can be attributed to various factors, including limited economic resources, a focus on immediate employment needs, and a lack of comprehensive social welfare policies. Such conditions may hinder the government's ability to implement supportive measures for families.

Additionally, it is important to note that many countries in the region, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, have historically faced challenges in establishing robust labor laws and social protections, which can contribute to disparities in parental support. As such, Cabo Verde's situation in 1994 is reflective of broader trends affecting many developing nations.

Madagascar

In 1994, Madagascar ranked 101 out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, offering a total of 0 days of paid leave. This lack of provision reflects broader socio-economic challenges within the country, where policies surrounding maternity leave were not prioritized, likely due to limited financial resources and a focus on immediate economic needs.

The absence of paid parental leave can have significant implications for maternal and child health, as well as for gender equality in the workforce. The societal norms and economic structures prevalent in Madagascar during the 1990s may have contributed to this statistic, as traditional views of gender roles often placed the burden of child-rearing solely on women without state support.

Globally, the trend towards providing paid parental leave has been gaining traction, with many countries recognizing the importance of supporting families during the early stages of child development. In contrast, Madagascar's policy stance in 1994 illustrates the ongoing challenges faced by many nations in implementing comprehensive family support systems.

Vietnam

In 1994, Vietnam ranked 186 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 stark statistic highlights the country's minimal support for maternal welfare during that period, reflecting broader socio-economic challenges.

The lack of paid parental leave can be attributed to several factors, including Vietnam's developing economy, prioritization of industrialization, and insufficient social welfare policies. The government's focus on rapid economic growth often resulted in limited attention to labor rights and family support systems.

During this time, many countries were beginning to recognize the importance of parental leave in promoting child health and family stability, making Vietnam's position particularly notable. This statistic has since evolved, with improvements in parental leave policies reflecting a growing recognition of the need for family support in the labor market.

Myanmar

In 1994, Myanmar ranked 116th out of 189 countries in terms of paid parental leave for mothers, with a recorded length of 0 days. This statistic highlights the limited support for maternity leave within the country, indicating that new mothers were not entitled to any paid leave during the early stages of motherhood.

The absence of paid parental leave in Myanmar can be attributed to several socio-economic factors, including a lack of comprehensive labor laws, economic instability, and cultural norms that may not prioritize maternal support. During this period, the country was also facing significant political and economic challenges, which likely contributed to the neglect of family welfare policies.

Furthermore, the lack of paid parental leave has implications for maternal and child health, as well as for workforce participation among women. Globally, countries with more generous parental leave policies often report better health outcomes for mothers and children, as well as increased gender equality in the workplace.

Republic of Moldova

In 1994, the Republic of Moldova ranked 137th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, offering a mere 0 days of paid leave. This statistic reflects the country's challenging economic situation in the post-Soviet era, where budgetary constraints and economic instability limited the government's ability to provide comprehensive social benefits.

The absence of paid parental leave in Moldova during this period can be attributed to several factors, including a focus on economic recovery and the prioritization of other pressing issues, such as infrastructure and public health. Additionally, the societal norms regarding gender roles and family responsibilities may have influenced the lack of formal support for new mothers.

In comparison to other countries, this statistic illustrates the broader challenges faced by many post-Soviet states in addressing social welfare, with lasting implications for gender equality and child welfare policies in the region.

Norway

In 1994, Norway ranked first out of 189 countries for the length of paid parental leave for mothers, providing an impressive 63 days of paid leave. This policy reflects the country's commitment to supporting families and promoting gender equality in the workplace.

The relatively generous duration of paid parental leave in Norway can be attributed to its strong welfare state model, which prioritizes the well-being of children and parents. The Norwegian government has historically implemented policies that encourage parental involvement in childcare, recognizing the importance of early bonding and development.

Norway's progressive approach to parental leave has been influential in shaping family policy across Europe, with many countries looking to its model as a benchmark for enhancing parental rights. Additionally, this policy is part of a broader strategy to promote work-life balance and women's participation in the labor force, contributing to Norway's high rankings in global gender equality indices.

North Macedonia

In 1994, North Macedonia ranked 124th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, offering a total of 0 days. This lack of parental leave reflects broader socio-economic challenges and policy frameworks that have historically limited support for families in the country.

The absence of paid parental leave during this period can be attributed to several factors, including a focus on economic stabilization following the breakup of Yugoslavia, which led to significant economic and social restructuring. Additionally, cultural norms and labor market conditions may have contributed to the limited recognition of parental leave as a necessary policy measure.

In comparison to other countries, many nations have implemented extensive parental leave policies, recognizing their importance for child development and family welfare. The situation in North Macedonia highlights the ongoing challenges faced in developing comprehensive family support systems, which could improve both gender equality and the overall well-being of children.

Samoa

In 1994, Samoa ranked 144th out of 189 countries in terms of paid parental leave for mothers, with an official policy of 0 days of paid leave. This lack of provision reflects broader challenges in the region regarding maternal support and work-life balance.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to various factors, including economic constraints, a reliance on traditional family structures for childcare, and limited government resources to implement comprehensive social welfare policies. In many Pacific Island nations, cultural norms often dictate the roles of mothers, which can influence the prioritization of such policies.

Additionally, the lack of paid leave for mothers may impact maternal health and child development, as financial pressures can force new mothers to return to work prematurely. The situation in Samoa contrasts with many developed countries that provide substantial parental leave, highlighting significant disparities in maternal support across global contexts.

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