Length of paid parental leave for mother 2013

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	Japan	309 days
4	Italy	180 days
5	Luxembourg	180 days
6	Slovenia	130 days
7	Belgium	120 days
8	Croatia	90 days
9	Norway	63 days
10	Germany	60 days
11	Sweden	60 days
12	Chile	42 days
13	Portugal	42 days
14	Romania	30 days
15	Afghanistan	0 days
16	Albania	0 days
17	Algeria	0 days
18	Angola	0 days
19	Antigua and Barbuda	0 days
20	Argentina	0 days
21	Armenia	0 days
22	Australia	0 days
23	Austria	0 days
24	Azerbaijan	0 days
25	Bahamas	0 days
26	Bahrain	0 days
27	Bangladesh	0 days
28	Barbados	0 days
29	Belarus	0 days
30	Belize	0 days
31	Benin	0 days
32	Bhutan	0 days
33	Bolivia	0 days
34	Bosnia and Herzegovina	0 days
35	Botswana	0 days
36	Brazil	0 days
37	Brunei Darussalam	0 days
38	Bulgaria	0 days
39	Burkina Faso	0 days
40	Burundi	0 days
41	Cabo Verde	0 days
42	Cambodia	0 days
43	Cameroon	0 days
44	Canada	0 days
45	Central African Republic	0 days
46	Chad	0 days
47	China	0 days
48	China, Hong Kong SAR	0 days
49	Colombia	0 days
50	Comoros	0 days
51	Congo	0 days
52	Congo, Democratic Republic of the	0 days
53	Costa Rica	0 days
54	Côte d'Ivoire	0 days
55	Cyprus	0 days
56	Czech Republic	0 days
57	Denmark	0 days
58	Djibouti	0 days
59	Dominica	0 days
60	Dominican Republic	0 days
61	Ecuador	0 days
62	Egypt	0 days
63	El Salvador	0 days
64	Equatorial Guinea	0 days
65	Eritrea	0 days
66	Estonia	0 days
67	Eswatini	0 days
68	Ethiopia	0 days
69	Fiji	0 days
70	Finland	0 days
71	France	0 days
72	Gabon	0 days
73	Gambia	0 days
74	Georgia	0 days
75	Ghana	0 days
76	Greece	0 days
77	Grenada	0 days
78	Guatemala	0 days
79	Guinea	0 days
80	Guinea-Bissau	0 days
81	Guyana	0 days
82	Haiti	0 days
83	Honduras	0 days
84	Hungary	0 days
85	Iceland	0 days
86	India	0 days
87	Indonesia	0 days
88	Iran	0 days
89	Iraq	0 days
90	Ireland	0 days
91	Israel	0 days
92	Jamaica	0 days
93	Jordan	0 days
94	Kazakhstan	0 days
95	Kenya	0 days
96	Kiribati	0 days
97	Kosovo	0 days
98	Kuwait	0 days
99	Kyrgyzstan	0 days
100	Laos	0 days
101	Latvia	0 days
102	Lebanon	0 days
103	Lesotho	0 days
104	Liberia	0 days
105	Libya	0 days
106	Lithuania	0 days
107	Madagascar	0 days
108	Malawi	0 days
109	Malaysia	0 days
110	Maldives	0 days
111	Mali	0 days
112	Malta	0 days
113	Marshall Islands	0 days
114	Mauritania	0 days
115	Mauritius	0 days
116	Mexico	0 days
117	Micronesia (Fed. States of)	0 days
118	Mongolia	0 days
119	Montenegro	0 days
120	Morocco	0 days
121	Mozambique	0 days
122	Myanmar	0 days
123	Namibia	0 days
124	Nepal	0 days
125	Netherlands	0 days
126	New Zealand	0 days
127	Nicaragua	0 days
128	Niger	0 days
129	Nigeria	0 days
130	North Macedonia	0 days
131	Oman	0 days
132	Pakistan	0 days
133	Palau	0 days
134	Panama	0 days
135	Papua New Guinea	0 days
136	Paraguay	0 days
137	Peru	0 days
138	Philippines	0 days
139	Poland	0 days
140	Puerto Rico	0 days
141	Qatar	0 days
142	Republic of Moldova	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 measure reflecting a country's commitment to family well-being and workforce participation. In 2013, this metric varied significantly across the globe, highlighting disparities in social policies and their implications for gender equality. This article delves into the global statistics of paid parental leave for mothers, exploring international comparisons and the broader societal impacts these policies entail.

Global Overview of Parental Leave in 2013

In 2013, the average length of paid parental leave for mothers among 189 countries was 11.37 days, with a stark contrast between minimum and maximum values. While Tajikistan offered an impressive 478 days of paid leave, countries like Barbados, Bangladesh, and Australia provided none at all. This disparity underscores the diverse approaches to family support policies around the world, reflecting both cultural and economic priorities.

Regional Comparisons and Patterns

Analyzing the data regionally, it becomes evident that countries with robust welfare systems, particularly in Europe and parts of Asia, tend to offer longer paid parental leaves. For instance, South Korea and Japan provided 365 and 309 days respectively, emphasizing their commitment to maternal health and child development. In contrast, many countries in the Caribbean and parts of Asia, like the Bahamas and Bahrain, offered no paid leave, highlighting a potential gap in social support systems that could affect women's participation in the workforce and overall family well-being.

Impact on Society and Workforce Participation

Paid parental leave is not just a matter of individual benefit but has profound implications on society as a whole. Extended leave periods, as seen in countries like Luxembourg (180 days) and Italy (180 days), typically lead to better health outcomes for both mothers and infants. Moreover, they facilitate a smoother transition back into the workforce, potentially increasing female labor force participation. Conversely, the absence of paid leave, as seen in several countries, could contribute to economic disparities and limit women's career advancement.

Year-over-Year Changes in Parental Leave Policies

Examining changes from the previous year, Belgium saw a notable increase of 30 days, marking a 33.3% improvement in its parental leave policy. This change reflects a growing recognition of the importance of supporting new mothers, which can foster greater gender equality and productivity in the workplace. However, despite some advancements, most top countries like Tajikistan and South Korea maintained their leave durations, indicating stability rather than expansion in those regions.

Policy Implications and Future Outlook

The disparities in paid parental leave policies observed in 2013 suggest a need for global dialogue and reform. Countries offering little to no leave might consider the economic and social benefits of extending these periods, as evidenced by more generous policies. Furthermore, international organizations could play a pivotal role in promoting standards that support family health and gender equality. Moving forward, a more unified approach could enhance global workforce participation and contribute to broader societal well-being.

The 2013 data on paid parental leave for mothers highlights the complex interplay between social policy, economic development, and family health. As countries continue to navigate these challenges, understanding these dynamics will be crucial in shaping policies that are equitable and beneficial for all members of society.

Insights by country

Mongolia

Mongolia ranked 118th out of 189 countries in terms of paid parental leave for mothers in the year 2013. Notably, the length of paid parental leave for mothers was recorded at 0 days, indicating a significant lack of formal support for new mothers in the workforce.

This absence of paid leave can be attributed to several factors, including the country's economic challenges, cultural attitudes towards gender roles, and a relatively underdeveloped social welfare system. In Mongolia, traditional expectations often place the burden of childcare primarily on women, which can limit their participation in the labor market.

Additionally, it is important to note that other countries in the region have implemented more robust parental leave policies, which highlights a disparity in social protections for families. As of 2013, the lack of paid parental leave could impact maternal health and child development outcomes, potentially affecting long-term societal well-being.

Ecuador

In 2013, Ecuador ranked 61st out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with a recorded duration of 0 days. This statistic highlights a significant gap in social policy aimed at supporting new mothers in the workforce, indicating a lack of formal paid parental leave provisions during this period.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to various factors, including economic constraints, cultural attitudes towards gender roles, and a focus on labor market flexibility. Such policies often reflect broader societal norms regarding motherhood and employment, which may prioritize immediate labor participation over family support mechanisms.

Interestingly, this situation is not unique to Ecuador, as many countries in the region and globally face similar challenges in providing adequate maternity benefits. Comprehensive paid parental leave is often associated with improved maternal and child health outcomes, as well as increased workforce participation of women, underlining the importance of policy reform in this area.

Cameroon

In 2013, Cameroon ranked 43rd out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, which was recorded at 0 days. This statistic highlights the lack of formalized parental leave policies within the country, reflecting broader challenges in labor rights and gender equality.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to various factors, including economic constraints, cultural norms that prioritize traditional gender roles, and insufficient governmental support for family-oriented policies. These factors can significantly impact women's health and well-being, as well as their participation in the workforce.

Additionally, this situation is not unique to Cameroon; many countries in the region face similar challenges, with limited maternity benefits contributing to disparities in maternal health outcomes and child development. The World Bank and other organizations continue to advocate for improvements in parental leave policies as a means to support families and encourage gender equality in the workplace.

Japan

In 2013, Japan was ranked third out of 189 countries for the length of paid parental leave for mothers, offering an impressive 309 days of paid leave. This extensive leave policy reflects Japan's commitment to supporting families during the crucial early stages of child-rearing.

The relatively long duration of paid parental leave in Japan can be attributed to cultural values that emphasize family and child welfare, as well as government policies aimed at increasing the birth rate in a country facing demographic challenges. This policy is part of broader efforts to promote gender equality in the workplace and encourage both parents to participate in childcare.

Additionally, Japan's paid parental leave system allows mothers to take leave for a significant portion of the child's first year, which is crucial for both the child's development and the mother's well-being. The support for mothers during this period is essential in a country where traditional gender roles have historically placed the burden of childcare primarily on women.

Ukraine

In 2013, Ukraine ranked 178th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with an alarming statistic of 0 days of paid parental leave available. This ranking reflects a significant gap in parental support policies compared to many other nations, where paid leave is a crucial aspect of maternal health and family welfare.

The absence of paid parental leave in Ukraine can be attributed to various factors, including economic challenges, a lack of comprehensive family policies, and a historical context where such benefits were not prioritized. Furthermore, the ongoing political and economic instability in Ukraine during this period may have hindered the implementation of more progressive social policies.

Interestingly, other countries in the region have made strides in providing parental leave, indicating a potential area for policy development in Ukraine that could enhance family support and child well-being in future years.

Mozambique

In 2013, Mozambique ranked 121 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 a significant gap in support for new mothers in the workforce, indicating limited governmental policies aimed at promoting work-life balance and maternal health.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to various factors, including economic constraints, a high prevalence of informal employment, and underdeveloped labor laws. In a country where poverty rates are high, many families rely on immediate income, which can discourage the implementation of comprehensive parental leave policies.

Furthermore, Mozambique's healthcare system faces challenges that affect maternal and child health outcomes, with a need for improved support structures for families. In comparison to other countries, where paid parental leave is more common, Mozambique's policy reflects broader issues of gender equality and workplace rights that require attention for sustainable development.

Romania

In 2013, Romania ranked 14th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, offering a total of 30 days of paid leave. This relatively favorable position reflects the country's commitment to supporting families during the critical early days of a child's life.

The structure of parental leave in Romania is influenced by various socio-economic factors, including the country's labor market conditions, cultural attitudes towards motherhood, and the government's policies aimed at promoting child welfare. The provision of paid leave is designed to encourage mothers to remain in the workforce while ensuring they have time to care for their newborns.

Additionally, Romania's healthcare system and social support mechanisms play a vital role in shaping parental leave policies. As of 2013, many European countries were moving towards enhancing parental leave benefits, and Romania's position reflects an awareness of the importance of such measures in promoting child development and maternal health.

Yemen

In 2013, Yemen ranked 187 out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, which was recorded at 0 days. This statistic reflects a significant lack of support for maternal health and family welfare in the country.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to various factors, including the ongoing conflict, economic instability, and limited governmental resources. Furthermore, traditional norms and cultural practices may also play a role in how maternity leave policies are shaped and implemented in Yemen.

In comparison, many countries around the world offer varying lengths of paid parental leave, recognizing its importance for both child development and maternal health. Countries with robust parental leave policies often demonstrate better health outcomes for both mothers and children, highlighting the potential long-term benefits of such measures in developing nations like Yemen.

Dominica

In 2013, Dominica ranked 59th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with a provision of 0 days. This statistic highlights the absence of formal paid maternity leave policies, which can significantly impact the well-being of mothers and their newborns during the critical early stages of life.

The lack of paid parental leave in Dominica may be attributed to various factors, including economic constraints, cultural attitudes towards family leave, and the prioritization of other social policies. In a small island economy like Dominica, limited resources can restrict the implementation of extensive family support programs.

Globally, many countries recognize the importance of parental leave in promoting child welfare and gender equality, leading to policies that support families during the transition to parenthood. The absence of such support in Dominica may have implications for both maternal health and child development.

Honduras

In 2013, Honduras ranked 83rd out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with a total of 0 days of paid leave available. This statistic highlights the significant gaps in parental leave policies in the country, which can impact maternal health and child development.

The absence of paid parental leave in Honduras can be attributed to various factors, including economic constraints, lack of labor regulations, and limited governmental support for family-friendly policies. This situation is often exacerbated by high levels of poverty and instability within the nation, which can hinder the implementation of comprehensive social welfare programs.

Additionally, many countries in Central America face similar challenges, as they often prioritize economic growth over social protections. For instance, neighboring countries like Nicaragua and El Salvador also struggle with low parental leave provisions, reflecting a broader regional trend that impacts the well-being of families.

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