Length of paid parental leave for mother 2002

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	Tajikistan	478 days
2	South Korea	365 days
3	Italy	180 days
4	Luxembourg	180 days
5	Slovenia	130 days
6	Belgium	90 days
7	Norway	63 days
8	Sweden	60 days
9	Afghanistan	0 days
10	Albania	0 days
11	Algeria	0 days
12	Angola	0 days
13	Antigua and Barbuda	0 days
14	Argentina	0 days
15	Armenia	0 days
16	Australia	0 days
17	Austria	0 days
18	Azerbaijan	0 days
19	Bahamas	0 days
20	Bahrain	0 days
21	Bangladesh	0 days
22	Barbados	0 days
23	Belarus	0 days
24	Belize	0 days
25	Benin	0 days
26	Bhutan	0 days
27	Bolivia	0 days
28	Bosnia and Herzegovina	0 days
29	Botswana	0 days
30	Brazil	0 days
31	Brunei Darussalam	0 days
32	Bulgaria	0 days
33	Burkina Faso	0 days
34	Burundi	0 days
35	Cabo Verde	0 days
36	Cambodia	0 days
37	Cameroon	0 days
38	Canada	0 days
39	Central African Republic	0 days
40	Chad	0 days
41	Chile	0 days
42	China	0 days
43	China, Hong Kong SAR	0 days
44	Colombia	0 days
45	Comoros	0 days
46	Congo	0 days
47	Congo, Democratic Republic of the	0 days
48	Costa Rica	0 days
49	Côte d'Ivoire	0 days
50	Croatia	0 days
51	Cyprus	0 days
52	Czech Republic	0 days
53	Denmark	0 days
54	Djibouti	0 days
55	Dominica	0 days
56	Dominican Republic	0 days
57	Ecuador	0 days
58	Egypt	0 days
59	El Salvador	0 days
60	Equatorial Guinea	0 days
61	Eritrea	0 days
62	Estonia	0 days
63	Eswatini	0 days
64	Ethiopia	0 days
65	Fiji	0 days
66	Finland	0 days
67	France	0 days
68	Gabon	0 days
69	Gambia	0 days
70	Georgia	0 days
71	Germany	0 days
72	Ghana	0 days
73	Greece	0 days
74	Grenada	0 days
75	Guatemala	0 days
76	Guinea	0 days
77	Guinea-Bissau	0 days
78	Guyana	0 days
79	Haiti	0 days
80	Honduras	0 days
81	Hungary	0 days
82	Iceland	0 days
83	India	0 days
84	Indonesia	0 days
85	Iran	0 days
86	Iraq	0 days
87	Ireland	0 days
88	Israel	0 days
89	Jamaica	0 days
90	Japan	0 days
91	Jordan	0 days
92	Kazakhstan	0 days
93	Kenya	0 days
94	Kiribati	0 days
95	Kosovo	0 days
96	Kuwait	0 days
97	Kyrgyzstan	0 days
98	Laos	0 days
99	Latvia	0 days
100	Lebanon	0 days
101	Lesotho	0 days
102	Liberia	0 days
103	Libya	0 days
104	Lithuania	0 days
105	Madagascar	0 days
106	Malawi	0 days
107	Malaysia	0 days
108	Maldives	0 days
109	Mali	0 days
110	Malta	0 days
111	Marshall Islands	0 days
112	Mauritania	0 days
113	Mauritius	0 days
114	Mexico	0 days
115	Micronesia (Fed. States of)	0 days
116	Mongolia	0 days
117	Montenegro	0 days
118	Morocco	0 days
119	Mozambique	0 days
120	Myanmar	0 days
121	Namibia	0 days
122	Nepal	0 days
123	Netherlands	0 days
124	New Zealand	0 days
125	Nicaragua	0 days
126	Niger	0 days
127	Nigeria	0 days
128	North Macedonia	0 days
129	Oman	0 days
130	Pakistan	0 days
131	Palau	0 days
132	Panama	0 days
133	Papua New Guinea	0 days
134	Paraguay	0 days
135	Peru	0 days
136	Philippines	0 days
137	Poland	0 days
138	Portugal	0 days
139	Puerto Rico	0 days
140	Qatar	0 days
141	Republic of Moldova	0 days
142	Romania	0 days
143	Russia	0 days
144	Rwanda	0 days
145	Saint Kitts and Nevis	0 days
146	Saint Lucia	0 days
147	Saint Vincent and the Grenadines	0 days
148	Samoa	0 days
149	San Marino	0 days
150	Sao Tome and Principe	0 days
151	Saudi Arabia	0 days
152	Senegal	0 days
153	Serbia	0 days
154	Seychelles	0 days
155	Sierra Leone	0 days
156	Singapore	0 days
157	Slovakia	0 days
158	Solomon Islands	0 days
159	Somalia	0 days
160	South Africa	0 days
161	South Sudan	0 days
162	Spain	0 days
163	Sri Lanka	0 days
164	State of Palestine	0 days
165	Sudan	0 days
166	Suriname	0 days
167	Switzerland	0 days
168	Syrian Arab Republic	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 social metric, reflecting a country's commitment to family well-being and gender equality in the workplace. In 2002, this statistic varied significantly across the globe, highlighting disparities in social policies and economic conditions among nations. By examining the paid parental leave policies, we gain insights into the societal priorities of different countries and the implications for children's and mothers' welfare.

Global Disparities in Paid Parental Leave

In 2002, the range of paid parental leave for mothers was stark, with some countries offering extensive support while others provided none at all. Tajikistan led the world with an impressive 478 days of paid leave, demonstrating a strong policy commitment to supporting new mothers. In contrast, many countries, including Australia and Argentina, offered no paid parental leave, reflecting significant gaps in their social safety nets. These disparities underscore the differences in national priorities and the challenges faced by working mothers in different parts of the world.

Regional Patterns and Their Implications

The data reveal intriguing regional patterns in paid parental leave. European countries such as Italy and Luxembourg provided substantial leave, with 180 days, aligning with the region's generally strong social welfare systems. Scandinavian countries like Norway and Sweden, known for their progressive policies, offered 63 and 60 days respectively, indicating a balance between workforce participation and family support. Meanwhile, many African and Asian countries, such as Algeria and Afghanistan, offered no paid leave at all, reflecting economic constraints and differing societal norms.

The Influence of Policy on Workforce Participation

The length of paid parental leave is a significant factor influencing women's participation in the workforce. Countries like South Korea, which offered a full year of paid leave, demonstrated a commitment to facilitating a smoother transition back to work for mothers. This policy has potential long-term benefits for both the economy and gender equality. However, in countries without paid leave, women often face difficult choices between career and family, which can lead to lower workforce participation rates and perpetuate gender disparities in employment.

Historical Context and Year-over-Year Changes

Looking at year-over-year changes, Sweden increased its leave from 30 to 60 days, representing a 100% increase that underscores its progressive stance on family support. Despite the significant variations in 2002, there was a modest average increase of 16.7% in paid parental leave days globally. This trend suggests a gradual recognition of the importance of parental leave in fostering family well-being and gender equality. Nonetheless, the pace of change varied widely, with many countries maintaining the status quo, highlighting the complexity of enacting policy changes globally.

Economic Implications of Parental Leave Policies

The length of paid parental leave not only impacts families but also has broader economic implications. By providing paid leave, countries can potentially improve child health outcomes and reduce turnover costs for employers. However, implementing such policies requires balancing economic constraints with social benefits. Countries like Belgium, with 90 days of leave, demonstrate that it is possible to offer substantial parental support while maintaining economic stability. Conversely, countries with no paid leave may face long-term economic costs due to higher employee turnover and reduced female participation in the labor market.

In conclusion, the length of paid parental leave for mothers in 2002 varied greatly across the globe, highlighting significant disparities in social policies and economic conditions. These differences reflect each country's unique societal values and economic priorities. As awareness of the importance of parental leave grows, future policy changes may lead to more uniform international standards, further promoting gender equality and supporting family well-being.

Insights by country

Djibouti

In the year 2002, Djibouti ranked 54th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, which was notably 0 days. This indicates that, at that time, the nation did not provide any paid leave for mothers following childbirth, reflecting a significant gap in parental support policies.

The absence of paid parental leave in Djibouti can be attributed to various factors, including economic constraints, limited resources, and the prioritization of other social policies. In many developing countries, such policies may be overlooked due to the immediate need for economic growth and stability.

Globally, nations with more comprehensive parental leave policies tend to have better maternal and child health outcomes, highlighting the potential long-term benefits of investing in such social programs. The lack of paid leave in Djibouti underscores the challenges faced by working mothers in balancing employment and family responsibilities.

Turkey

In 2002, Turkey ranked 176th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, offering a total of 0 days of paid leave. This stark statistic reflects a broader trend in Turkey's labor policies at the time, which were often characterized by limited support for working mothers and family-oriented benefits.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to various factors, including socioeconomic conditions, cultural norms regarding gender roles, and the prioritization of economic growth over social welfare programs. Additionally, Turkey's legal framework for labor rights during this period was less developed compared to many European nations, which typically offered more comprehensive parental leave policies.

It is noteworthy that the lack of paid parental leave may have significant implications for maternal and child health, as well as for women's participation in the workforce. In contrast, many countries with supportive parental leave policies have seen benefits such as increased breastfeeding rates and improved early childhood development.

Rwanda

In the year 2002, Rwanda ranked 144th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, offering a total of 0 days. This lack of paid maternity leave is indicative of the broader challenges faced by the country in terms of gender equality and social support systems following the 1994 genocide, which severely impacted the nation's infrastructure and social fabric.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to several factors, including limited resources, a focus on economic recovery, and a lack of legislative frameworks that prioritize family welfare. The Rwandan government has historically emphasized economic growth and stability, often at the expense of social welfare programs.

As a related point of interest, Rwanda has made strides in various areas of gender equality in subsequent years, becoming a leader in female representation in government. However, the legacy of insufficient parental leave policies continues to be a critical issue for working mothers in the country.

Lithuania

In 2002, Lithuania ranked 104th out of 189 countries in terms of the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with an alarming statistic of 0 days of paid leave. This lack of support reflects a broader trend in the region at the time, where many countries were still developing their social welfare policies and parental leave frameworks.

The absence of paid parental leave in Lithuania during this period can be attributed to several factors, including economic constraints, a focus on labor market participation, and a limited understanding of the long-term benefits of parental support for child development. Additionally, the transition from a Soviet regime to a market economy led to significant changes in social policies, often leaving parental support measures underfunded or undervalued.

It is noteworthy that many countries have since recognized the importance of parental leave, with many now providing generous support systems that contribute to better maternal and child health outcomes. The evolution of parental leave policies globally has increasingly highlighted the essential role of such measures in promoting family well-being and gender equality in the workplace.

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

In 2002, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines ranked 147th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with a total of 0 days available. This statistic highlights the limited support for new mothers in the country, as no formal paid leave is provided to assist during the critical period following childbirth.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to various factors, such as economic constraints, a focus on immediate labor market needs, and a lack of comprehensive social welfare policies. These challenges may reflect the broader economic conditions of the nation, which often prioritize short-term economic viability over long-term family support initiatives.

Additionally, many Caribbean nations face similar issues, leading to a regional trend of limited parental leave policies. This lack of support can impact maternal health, child development, and overall family well-being, emphasizing the need for policy reform in the area of parental leave.

Senegal

In 2002, Senegal ranked 152nd out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, offering 0 days of paid leave. This absence of paid parental leave reflects broader issues within the country's labor laws and social policies, which often do not prioritize family welfare or support for new mothers.

The lack of paid parental leave can be attributed to several factors, including economic constraints, where the government may prioritize immediate economic stability over social benefits. Additionally, cultural norms within Senegal may view extended maternity leave as a hindrance to women's participation in the workforce, further complicating the issue.

It's noteworthy that many countries worldwide have recognized the importance of parental leave in promoting child health and maternal well-being, with some countries offering extensive leave policies. The disparity in parental leave provisions can significantly impact gender equality and child development outcomes.

Saint Kitts and Nevis

In 2002, Saint Kitts and Nevis ranked 145th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with a total of 0 days provided. This statistic places the nation among those with the least supportive parental leave policies globally, reflecting a broader trend in the region where maternity benefits may be limited.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to various factors, including economic constraints, the size of the economy, and the prioritization of other social policies over family support initiatives. In many small island nations, such as Saint Kitts and Nevis, limited resources often lead to challenges in implementing comprehensive welfare programs.

Interestingly, many countries with similar economic profiles have begun to recognize the importance of parental leave for promoting family welfare and economic stability, suggesting potential avenues for policy development in the future.

Uganda

In 2002, Uganda ranked 177 out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with a disheartening total of 0 days. This statistic highlights the lack of formal support for maternal well-being and child development during the critical postnatal period in Uganda.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to a combination of factors, including economic constraints, cultural norms, and inadequate labor policies. Many women in Uganda work in the informal sector, where labor rights are often unprotected, further exacerbating the challenges faced by new mothers.

In comparison, many neighboring countries have implemented more supportive policies, reflecting a broader trend in recognizing the importance of maternal health and family support. This lack of parental leave in Uganda underscores the need for reforms to improve maternal rights and promote child welfare.

Mozambique

In 2002, Mozambique ranked 119 out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, offering a total of 0 days of paid leave. This absence of paid parental leave reflects broader socio-economic challenges within the country, including limited resources and infrastructure to support family welfare policies.

The lack of maternity leave can be attributed to several factors, including the country's economic constraints, high levels of poverty, and a focus on immediate labor needs over family-oriented policies. As a developing nation, Mozambique faces significant challenges in implementing comprehensive social security systems that can provide adequate support for new mothers.

Interestingly, the global average for paid maternity leave in 2002 was typically higher, with many countries offering at least several weeks to months of leave. This disparity highlights the ongoing struggles many women in Mozambique face regarding maternal health and child-rearing support.

Cambodia

In 2002, Cambodia ranked 36 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 broader challenges in the country’s labor policies and social welfare systems, which have historically prioritized economic growth over comprehensive family support.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to several factors, including Cambodia's ongoing economic development, a largely informal labor market, and limited governmental resources to implement extensive welfare programs. Moreover, cultural norms surrounding gender roles and family responsibilities may also influence the limited support for maternal leave.

As a point of comparison, many neighboring Southeast Asian countries provide varying lengths of paid parental leave, indicating a regional disparity in family support policies. Increased awareness and advocacy for parental rights in the years following 2002 have led to discussions about reforming such policies to better support families and promote gender equity in the workforce.

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Women, Business and the Law, World Bank (WB)

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