Length of paid parental leave for mother 2006

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)•

View data for:

Interactive Map

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 mother" is a critical metric that offers insights into the societal and economic priorities of different countries. In 2006, this metric revealed significant discrepancies across 189 countries, with paid leave days ranging from none to a substantial 478 days. These variations underscore the diverse approaches to family welfare and workforce participation worldwide, reflecting broader social policies and cultural values.

Global Overview of Parental Leave in 2006

In 2006, the global landscape of paid parental leave for mothers highlighted a stark contrast between nations emphasizing extensive family support and those offering minimal or no paid leave. The average length of paid leave across all countries was a modest 8.18 days, with a median value of zero, indicating that many countries provided little to no support for new mothers. Tajikistan led the list with 478 days of paid leave, followed by South Korea with a full year’s worth of leave at 365 days. European countries like Italy and Luxembourg also featured prominently, both offering 180 days. On the other hand, several countries, including Australia, Argentina, and Armenia, offered no paid leave, indicating significant gaps in familial support policies.

Regional Comparisons and Insights

Analyzing the data through a regional lens reveals significant disparities in the provision of paid parental leave. Developed nations, particularly in Europe, generally provided more substantial parental leave benefits compared to developing regions. For instance, Italy and Luxembourg, with their comprehensive welfare systems, offered substantial paid leave, reflecting their commitment to family well-being and gender equality in the workforce. In contrast, many African and some South American countries provided zero days of paid leave, posing challenges for mothers balancing work and family obligations. This disparity may be linked to differing economic capacities and social policies prioritizing other developmental needs over parental leave.

Policy Influence on Parental Leave

The presence or absence of paid parental leave is often a reflection of national policies and cultural attitudes towards gender roles and family structures. In countries like South Korea and Slovenia, robust parental leave policies are integral to broader strategies aimed at encouraging higher birth rates and supporting gender equality in employment. These policies are typically backed by comprehensive social safety nets and are designed to facilitate better work-life balance. Conversely, in nations where paid leave is absent or minimal, such policies may not be prioritized due to economic constraints or differing societal values. The case of Tajikistan, with its exceptionally long leave, may be attributed to specific policy decisions aimed at supporting family health and development in the post-Soviet era.

Economic Implications of Parental Leave Policies

The economic implications of parental leave policies are significant, as they can influence women’s participation in the labor market and overall economic productivity. Countries offering extensive paid leave, such as those in Western Europe, often experience higher retention rates of women in the workforce, contributing to a more balanced gender distribution in employment. These policies can also serve as incentives for higher workforce participation rates among women, potentially leading to economic growth. Conversely, in nations with no paid leave, women may face greater barriers in returning to work, which could result in reduced household income and limited economic growth. The zero-day provision in nations like Afghanistan and Zimbabwe underscores challenges in balancing economic growth with social welfare needs.

Potential Future Trends in Parental Leave

Looking beyond 2006, the trend towards more generous parental leave policies is likely to continue as nations recognize the importance of supporting families and promoting gender equality. Global discussions on workforce participation and family well-being are likely to influence policy reforms, especially in countries currently providing minimal support. As economic conditions improve and social attitudes shift, more countries may adopt policies similar to those of the leading nations in 2006, offering substantial periods of paid leave to support new mothers. These changes will not only impact family dynamics but could also drive significant shifts in economic productivity and social development.

In conclusion, the "Length of paid parental leave for mother" in 2006 serves as a vital indicator of societal priorities and economic strategies. The variations seen across countries highlight the diverse approaches to family support and workforce participation, with profound implications for future policy developments. As global awareness grows, there is potential for more equitable and supportive leave policies worldwide, fostering healthier family environments and more inclusive economies.

Insights by country

Australia

In 2006, Australia ranked 16th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with a recorded duration of 0 days. This statistic reflects a lack of formal paid parental leave policies specifically for mothers, which was a significant concern among advocates for family and women's rights at the time.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to several factors, including a historical emphasis on the market-driven economy and the belief that parental responsibilities should be primarily managed by families without state intervention. This was further compounded by the relatively high participation of women in the workforce, which some policymakers argued could reduce the necessity for government-mandated paid leave.

In contrast to this statistic, many countries in Europe and Scandinavia offered substantial paid parental leave, often exceeding several months, highlighting a divergence in social policies. Over the years, Australia has made strides in improving parental leave provisions, but the situation in 2006 underscores the challenges faced in achieving comprehensive family support policies.

Montenegro

In 2006, Montenegro ranked 117th out of 189 countries in terms of paid parental leave for mothers, providing 0 days of paid leave. This absence of paid parental leave reflects broader socio-economic conditions and policies in the country following its independence in 2006, as Montenegro was still in the early stages of establishing its legislative framework.

The lack of paid parental leave can be attributed to several factors, including limited economic resources, the nascent state of labor laws, and the prioritization of other social policies over family support initiatives. Additionally, the cultural context may have influenced the government's approach to parental leave, as traditional family structures often relied on extended family support.

Globally, the absence of paid parental leave for mothers has significant implications for child health and maternal well-being, as countries with more robust parental leave policies tend to experience better health outcomes for both children and mothers. Comparatively, many European countries have established extensive parental leave systems that support families in balancing work and caregiving responsibilities.

Mexico

In 2006, Mexico ranked 114th out of 189 countries in terms of paid parental leave for mothers, offering a total of 0 days of paid leave. This lack of support for new mothers reflects broader challenges within the country's labor policies and social welfare systems, which have historically prioritized economic output over family-oriented benefits.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to several factors, including cultural attitudes towards motherhood and workplace norms that often do not accommodate maternity needs. Additionally, the informal economy in Mexico is significant, with many women employed in sectors where labor protections are minimal or nonexistent, further complicating access to parental benefits.

Globally, Mexico's position is particularly notable as many countries have recognized the importance of paid parental leave in promoting child development and maternal health. In contrast, various nations have implemented extensive maternity leave policies, reflecting a growing understanding of the need for supportive measures for families.

Zimbabwe

In 2006, Zimbabwe ranked 189 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 the severe limitations placed on maternal support in the country, reflecting a broader trend of inadequate family-friendly policies.

The absence of paid parental leave can be linked to various socio-economic challenges faced by Zimbabwe during this period, including economic instability, hyperinflation, and a declining healthcare system. These factors contributed to a lack of governmental support for social welfare initiatives, which are crucial for maternal and child health.

Additionally, the lack of paid parental leave in Zimbabwe stands in stark contrast to international standards and recommendations from organizations such as the International Labour Organization (ILO), which advocates for a minimum of 14 weeks of paid maternity leave. This gap raises concerns about the wellbeing of mothers and infants, as well as the potential long-term impacts on family structures and child development.

Philippines

In 2006, the Philippines ranked 136th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, offering a total of 0 days. This statistic highlights the limited support for maternal leave in the country, reflecting broader societal and economic challenges associated with gender equity in the workplace.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to several factors, including economic constraints, cultural norms surrounding gender roles, and a lack of legislative advocacy for maternal rights. These conditions may discourage mothers from taking necessary time off for child-rearing, potentially impacting both maternal health and child development.

In contrast to global standards, many countries provide substantial paid parental leave, which has been linked to improved outcomes for both mothers and children, such as enhanced physical and mental health, increased bonding, and better developmental milestones for infants.

Maldives

In 2006, the Maldives ranked 108 out of 189 countries in terms of paid parental leave for mothers, with an actual provision of 0 days. This lack of paid parental leave reflects broader challenges in the Maldives' labor policies and social welfare systems, which have historically prioritized economic growth over family support measures.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to various factors, including the country's reliance on tourism and the informal nature of many jobs, which limits the implementation of comprehensive labor protections. Additionally, cultural norms may also play a role, as traditional family structures often expect extended family members to support new mothers, potentially reducing the perceived need for formalized maternal leave policies.

Globally, the trend towards increasing paid parental leave has been gaining momentum, with many countries recognizing its importance for child development and maternal health. As of 2006, the Maldives' policies stood in stark contrast to this trend, highlighting the need for reform to align with international best practices.

Luxembourg

In 2006, Luxembourg ranked fourth globally in terms of the length of paid parental leave for mothers, providing a substantial 180 days of paid leave. This generous policy reflects the country's commitment to supporting families and promoting work-life balance, which is crucial in a nation characterized by a high standard of living and strong economic performance.

The provision of extended paid parental leave can be attributed to Luxembourg's progressive social policies, which aim to enhance gender equality and encourage both parents to engage in child-rearing responsibilities. Such measures are often associated with favorable outcomes for child development and maternal health, contributing to overall societal well-being.

Additionally, as part of the European Union, Luxembourg aligns with broader regional trends that prioritize family-friendly policies. This is evidenced by various EU initiatives aimed at improving parental leave schemes across member states, highlighting the importance of supporting families in the workforce.

South Sudan

In 2006, South Sudan ranked 161st out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, providing a total of 0 days of paid leave. This ranking reflects the challenges faced by the nation in establishing comprehensive labor protections and social welfare policies in the aftermath of decades of conflict and instability.

The lack of paid parental leave can be attributed to various factors, including a fragile governmental structure, limited economic resources, and ongoing social challenges. The country's focus on rebuilding infrastructure and addressing basic needs often overshadows the implementation of family-oriented policies.

Furthermore, in many developing nations, cultural norms and economic conditions can lead to insufficient support for parental leave, which can impact maternal health and child development. As South Sudan continues to evolve, addressing these gaps will be crucial for improving the well-being of families and fostering a more supportive environment for parents and children.

Panama

In 2006, Panama ranked 132nd out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with a total of 0 days available. This statistic reflects a significant gap in parental support policies, which can affect maternal and child health outcomes, as well as the overall well-being of families.

The absence of paid parental leave may be attributed to various factors, including the economic structure and labor market policies in Panama, which historically have not prioritized family benefits. Additionally, cultural norms surrounding gender roles and caregiving may contribute to limited support for working mothers during the postpartum period.

It is noteworthy that countries with more robust parental leave policies tend to experience better health indicators for mothers and infants, indicating the potential impact of such policies on societal health and economic productivity.

Botswana

In 2006, Botswana ranked 29th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, which was notably 0 days. This statistic highlights the lack of formal support for maternal leave in the country, reflecting broader socio-economic dynamics and policy frameworks that govern labor rights.

The absence of paid parental leave may be influenced by several factors, including a focus on economic growth over social welfare programs, limited resources for implementing comprehensive family policies, and cultural norms surrounding gender roles and caregiving. Additionally, Botswana's economic landscape, characterized by its reliance on diamond mining and agriculture, may not prioritize family-friendly workplace policies.

Interestingly, compared to many countries around the world, Botswana's policy stance on parental leave is stark, as many nations have moved toward establishing more supportive frameworks for new mothers. The global trend has increasingly recognized the importance of parental leave in promoting child health and maternal wellbeing, a contrast to Botswana's policy in 2006.

Data Source

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

The Women, Business and the Law (WBL) team invites collaboration from public and private sector experts on data collection and dissemination to help create jobs for women and boost economic growth globally. The next WBL report is expected to be published in March 2026. If you are a private sector expert interested in contributing, please refer to the expert contributors page for more information. For the first time, governments are invited to nominate focal points to coordinate the completion of questionnaires. If you wish to contribute, please refer to the government engagement page.

Visit Data Source

Historical Data by Year

Explore Length of paid parental leave for mother data across different years. Compare trends and see how statistics have changed over time.

More People and Society Facts

Currently married (Percent)

The percentage of currently married individuals by country highlights societal trends in family structure and relationships. Understanding these statistics can provide insights into cultural norms and demographic shifts, influencing policies and social programs.

View data

Browse All People and Society

Explore more facts and statistics in this category

All Categories

Discover more categories with comprehensive global data