Length of paid parental leave for mother 2007

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	Germany	60 days
9	Sweden	60 days
10	Afghanistan	0 days
11	Albania	0 days
12	Algeria	0 days
13	Angola	0 days
14	Antigua and Barbuda	0 days
15	Argentina	0 days
16	Armenia	0 days
17	Australia	0 days
18	Austria	0 days
19	Azerbaijan	0 days
20	Bahamas	0 days
21	Bahrain	0 days
22	Bangladesh	0 days
23	Barbados	0 days
24	Belarus	0 days
25	Belize	0 days
26	Benin	0 days
27	Bhutan	0 days
28	Bolivia	0 days
29	Bosnia and Herzegovina	0 days
30	Botswana	0 days
31	Brazil	0 days
32	Brunei Darussalam	0 days
33	Bulgaria	0 days
34	Burkina Faso	0 days
35	Burundi	0 days
36	Cabo Verde	0 days
37	Cambodia	0 days
38	Cameroon	0 days
39	Canada	0 days
40	Central African Republic	0 days
41	Chad	0 days
42	Chile	0 days
43	China	0 days
44	China, Hong Kong SAR	0 days
45	Colombia	0 days
46	Comoros	0 days
47	Congo	0 days
48	Congo, Democratic Republic of the	0 days
49	Costa Rica	0 days
50	Côte d'Ivoire	0 days
51	Croatia	0 days
52	Cyprus	0 days
53	Czech Republic	0 days
54	Denmark	0 days
55	Djibouti	0 days
56	Dominica	0 days
57	Dominican Republic	0 days
58	Ecuador	0 days
59	Egypt	0 days
60	El Salvador	0 days
61	Equatorial Guinea	0 days
62	Eritrea	0 days
63	Estonia	0 days
64	Eswatini	0 days
65	Ethiopia	0 days
66	Fiji	0 days
67	Finland	0 days
68	France	0 days
69	Gabon	0 days
70	Gambia	0 days
71	Georgia	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 concept of paid parental leave for mothers is a pivotal social metric that reflects a country's commitment to supporting family well-being and maternal workforce participation. In 2007, the length of paid parental leave for mothers varied significantly across 189 countries, ranging from no leave offered to a remarkable 478 days. This disparity highlights the diverse approaches and priorities of nations worldwide in addressing the needs of new mothers and their families. Understanding these variations offers valuable insights into the socio-economic landscape of the time and its implications on gender equality and economic productivity.

Global Overview of Paid Parental Leave in 2007

In 2007, paid parental leave for mothers was a subject of considerable international variation, with the average length of leave being a mere 8.5 days. This low average is skewed by the significant number of countries offering no paid leave at all. The median value of zero days starkly illustrates that a substantial number of nations still did not prioritize this aspect of family support. Countries like Tajikistan led the charge with the most generous provisions, offering mothers 478 days of leave. South Korea followed with 365 days, reflecting its progressive stance on parental leave policies. Conversely, a startling 10 countries including Austria, Australia, and Argentina offered no paid leave, hinting at broader systemic challenges in these regions.

Regional Contrasts and Influences

The disparities in paid parental leave across different regions often align with economic capabilities and cultural norms. European nations like Luxembourg and Italy provided substantial leave, 180 days each, underscoring the continent's general commitment to supporting working mothers. In contrast, many countries in Africa and Oceania, such as Angola and Australia, offered no paid leave. This absence is indicative of both economic limitations and varying cultural attitudes towards maternal employment. Asian countries displayed a broad spectrum, with South Korea offering extensive leave, whereas others like Azerbaijan provided none. These contrasts point towards differing national priorities and the role of governmental policy in shaping maternal health and workforce engagement.

Implications on Workforce Participation

The length of paid parental leave has profound implications for women's participation in the workforce. Societies that provide extended leave, such as Slovenia with 130 days, often experience higher rates of maternal employment post-childbirth. This provision allows mothers to maintain career trajectories without sacrificing family responsibilities. Conversely, countries with limited or no leave may see a decline in female workforce participation as women are forced to choose between work and family. This scenario perpetuates gender inequality in professional environments and can hinder economic growth by excluding a significant portion of the population from full economic participation.

The generous parental leave policies observed in countries like Belgium and Norway, offering 90 and 63 days respectively, reflect a broader governmental commitment to social welfare. These policies are often tied to comprehensive social security systems that prioritize family well-being and gender equality. Such frameworks not only support families but also contribute to societal health and productivity by fostering inclusive economic participation. In contrast, the absence of paid leave in many countries suggests a lack of such integrated social support systems, which can exacerbate inequalities and limit economic progress.

Looking Forward: Future Trends and Considerations

As the global conversation around gender equality and workforce inclusivity continues to evolve, the length of paid parental leave remains a crucial indicator of progress. In 2007, the static nature of these policies, with no notable year-over-year changes, highlights the need for ongoing reform and advocacy. Future trends may see increased international pressure on countries lagging in parental leave provisions to adopt more supportive policies. Such changes would not only enhance family and societal well-being but also contribute to a more balanced and equitable global workforce.

The statistics from 2007 serve as a baseline for understanding the critical social issue of paid parental leave for mothers. By exploring these international comparisons and their implications, policymakers and advocates can better address the diverse needs of families worldwide, paving the way for more inclusive and supportive societies.

Insights by country

Australia

In 2007, Australia ranked 17th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, offering a total of 0 days of paid leave. This statistic reflects the country's then-ongoing debates about parental leave policies, which were not as comprehensive as those in many other developed nations.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to Australia's historical reliance on a more informal system of family support and a focus on labor market participation over welfare provisions. The lack of formalized paid leave may have implications for maternal health and child development, as studies suggest that extended leave can promote better outcomes for both mothers and their children.

As a comparison, many countries in Europe, such as Sweden and Norway, offer significantly longer paid parental leave, often exceeding a year, highlighting contrasting societal values concerning family support and child-rearing responsibilities. The situation in Australia has since evolved, with reforms implemented in subsequent years to enhance parental leave provisions.

China, Hong Kong SAR

In 2007, Hong Kong SAR ranked 44 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 limited support for new mothers in the region compared to other countries where paid parental leave is more common and often significantly longer.

The absence of paid parental leave in Hong Kong can be attributed to a combination of factors, including the region's emphasis on a free-market economy, which often prioritizes employer flexibility over mandated employee benefits. Additionally, traditional cultural values may influence the perception of parental roles and responsibilities following childbirth, potentially leading to a lack of legislative pressure for extended leave policies.

Interestingly, while Hong Kong's policy on parental leave was minimal at the time, other jurisdictions within China had varying levels of parental leave, reflecting a broader national conversation about work-life balance and family support systems. This disparity underscores ongoing discussions regarding gender equality and the need for improved family policies across different regions.

Honduras

In 2007, Honduras ranked 80th out of 189 countries in terms of paid parental leave for mothers, offering a total of 0 days of paid leave. This statistic reflects the country's limited support for maternal health and family policies, which can significantly impact the well-being of mothers and newborns.

The absence of paid parental leave in Honduras is linked to various socio-economic factors, including high levels of poverty, insufficient labor regulations, and a lack of emphasis on family welfare in national policies. These challenges are compounded by the nation's economic constraints, which limit the government's ability to implement comprehensive parental leave programs.

Furthermore, the lack of parental leave can contribute to low rates of breastfeeding and maternal bonding, which are critical for child development. In comparison, many countries globally are moving towards more generous parental leave policies, recognizing the importance of supporting families during this crucial period.

San Marino

In 2007, San Marino ranked 149th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with a reported duration of 0 days. This statistic highlights the limited support for new mothers in the country, reflecting a significant gap compared to global standards in parental leave policies.

The absence of paid parental leave may be influenced by San Marino's unique economic structure and demographic profile, which includes a small population and a reliance on traditional industries. Furthermore, the country's policies may prioritize other forms of social welfare over parental leave, resulting in a lower ranking in this area.

In contrast to more progressive nations that offer extensive parental leave, this statistic underscores the ongoing challenges faced by working mothers in San Marino, potentially impacting child health, maternal well-being, and family stability.

Serbia

In 2007, Serbia ranked 153rd out of 189 countries in terms of paid parental leave for mothers, with an official allowance of 0 days. This ranking reflects a significant gap in support for new mothers, particularly when compared to many other countries that offer extended paid leave.

The absence of paid parental leave may be attributed to various economic and social factors, including the country's transitional economy following the breakup of Yugoslavia, and ongoing challenges related to public health and welfare policies. These issues often influence the government's ability to implement comprehensive family support systems.

Interestingly, the lack of paid parental leave can have long-term implications on maternal health and child development, as it may discourage women from taking time off work to care for their newborns. Globally, countries that offer substantial paid parental leave typically see better outcomes in both maternal well-being and child health.

Tanzania

In 2007, Tanzania ranked 169 out of 189 countries for the length of paid parental leave for mothers, offering a total of 0 days. This statistic highlights the limited support for working mothers in Tanzania, where formal employment policies may not prioritize parental leave benefits.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to various factors, including economic constraints, a predominance of informal employment, and cultural norms that may not emphasize the need for such policies. Furthermore, the focus on increasing labor force participation often overshadows the importance of family-oriented benefits.

As a comparison, many countries around the world have recognized the benefits of paid parental leave in promoting child health and supporting families, underscoring the need for Tanzania to consider reforms in this area to improve maternal and child welfare.

Burundi

In 2007, Burundi ranked 35th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, a statistic revealing significant aspects of maternal policy in the country. Notably, the actual length of paid parental leave for mothers was 0 days, indicating a lack of financial support for new mothers during the critical postpartum period.

This absence of paid leave can be attributed to various factors, including Burundi's ongoing economic challenges, high levels of poverty, and limited resources allocated to social welfare programs. The country's focus on immediate economic survival often overshadows investments in family and maternal health policies.

Furthermore, this statistic is reflective of broader regional trends in East Africa, where many countries struggle to provide adequate parental leave, highlighting the need for reforms that prioritize maternal health and child welfare to improve socio-economic outcomes in the long term.

Zimbabwe

In 2007, Zimbabwe ranked 189 out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with a recorded value of 0 days. This ranking highlights the lack of formal support for maternity leave in the country, indicating that mothers were not entitled to any paid time off following childbirth.

The absence of paid parental leave in Zimbabwe has been influenced by a combination of economic challenges and political instability during this period. High inflation rates, unemployment, and a struggling economy have contributed to the inability of businesses and the government to provide such benefits.

Additionally, cultural factors may play a role, as traditional gender roles often place the responsibility of child-rearing primarily on women, which can limit the push for formalized parental leave policies. Overall, the lack of paid maternity leave in Zimbabwe reflects broader issues of gender equity and workers' rights within the nation.

Afghanistan

In 2007, Afghanistan ranked 10th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with an alarming 0 days of paid leave offered. This statistic reflects the significant challenges faced by women in Afghanistan, particularly concerning maternal support and workplace rights.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to various factors, including ongoing political instability, economic hardship, and cultural norms that prioritize traditional family structures over women's employment rights. Additionally, the country's infrastructure and social services are underdeveloped, limiting the ability of the government to implement comprehensive labor policies.

As a point of comparison, many countries around the world offer substantial periods of paid parental leave, often ranging from several weeks to a year, highlighting the disparities in maternal rights and protections globally. This lack of support in Afghanistan not only affects women's health and wellbeing but also has broader implications for child development and family stability.

Zambia

In 2007, Zambia ranked 188th out of 189 countries in terms of the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with an official policy providing 0 days of paid leave. This ranking highlights the significant gap in support for new mothers compared to many other nations, where paid parental leave is often a critical component of family and workplace policies.

The lack of paid parental leave in Zambia can be attributed to several factors, including economic constraints, a high prevalence of informal employment, and limited access to social security systems. This situation poses challenges for maternal and child health, as financial insecurity can discourage mothers from taking time off to care for their newborns.

Furthermore, the absence of paid leave can affect workforce participation and retention, as mothers may feel compelled to return to work prematurely due to financial pressures. Studies show that countries with supportive parental leave policies often experience improved maternal health outcomes and enhanced child development, underscoring the importance of such measures in fostering a healthier society.

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