Length of paid parental leave for mother 2014

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	120 days
9	Norway	119 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

In 2014, the length of paid parental leave for mothers emerged as a critical metric reflecting societal priorities towards family well-being and workforce dynamics worldwide. This measure highlights how countries support new mothers, impacting not only maternal health but also economic participation and social structures. With 189 countries reporting data, we observe a fascinating range from no days offered to an extensive 478 days in certain regions.

Global Dynamics of Paid Parental Leave in 2014

The global landscape of paid parental leave for mothers in 2014 presented a striking disparity. Among the 189 countries surveyed, the length of leave ranged from 0 to 478 days. Tajikistan led with an extensive offering of 478 days, followed by South Korea with 365 days and Japan with 309 days. These nations demonstrate a strong commitment to supporting new mothers, reflecting cultural and policy-driven priorities towards family and societal health. Contrastingly, countries like Barbados, Bangladesh, and Australia reported no paid parental leave, indicating either economic constraints or differing governmental priorities.

Regional Contrasts and Influences

The data reveals a stark regional contrast in the provision of paid parental leave. European countries generally provide more extensive leave compared to other regions, with Italy and Luxembourg offering 180 days. This robust support is often linked to well-established welfare systems and a societal emphasis on work-life balance. In contrast, many nations in the Caribbean and parts of Asia report minimal to no paid leave, highlighting economic and policy factors that prioritize immediate economic productivity over long-term family welfare benefits.

Policy Impact and Social Implications

National policies greatly influence the length of paid parental leave, affecting both family structures and economic landscapes. Countries offering substantial leave, such as Slovenia and Croatia, with 130 and 120 days respectively, have policies that recognize the importance of early maternal bonding and postpartum recovery. Such measures are often correlated with higher female workforce participation rates and improved gender equality metrics. On the other hand, in countries where no paid leave is provided, mothers face significant challenges balancing work and family obligations, which can lead to gender disparities in employment opportunities and income.

Recent Changes and Trends

Examining the year-over-year changes, Norway and Croatia showed notable increases from the previous year, with Norway adding 56 days, marking an 88.9% rise. This change underscores a growing awareness and policy shift towards supporting family health and gender equality. These increases are indicative of broader trends where countries are beginning to recognize the long-term social and economic benefits of extended parental leave.

The economic and social benefits of extended paid parental leave go beyond immediate family support. Countries with generous leave policies, such as Germany, which offers 60 days, often see a more balanced workforce. These policies can lead to higher employee satisfaction and retention rates, creating a more stable economic environment. Moreover, supporting mothers in the early postnatal period contributes to healthier family dynamics, reducing long-term healthcare costs and promoting social well-being.

In conclusion, the length of paid parental leave for mothers in 2014 highlights critical international variations, influenced by economic, cultural, and policy factors. As nations continue to analyze and reformulate their parental leave policies, the insights from 2014 provide a valuable benchmark for understanding the broader implications of family support systems in shaping societal health and economic stability.

Insights by country

Micronesia (Fed. States of)

In 2014, Micronesia (Fed. States of) ranked 117th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with a total of 0 days of paid leave. This statistic reflects a significant gap in parental support systems compared to many other nations, where paid leave is often seen as a fundamental right for new mothers.

The absence of paid parental leave in Micronesia can be attributed to various socio-economic factors, including limited financial resources, a small economy, and traditional gender roles that may influence perceptions about motherhood and employment. The lack of such policies may hinder maternal health and child development, as women may feel pressured to return to work shortly after childbirth.

Globally, many countries recognize the importance of parental leave in promoting family well-being and gender equality. For instance, countries like Sweden and Norway provide extensive paid parental leave, often exceeding a year, highlighting the contrast in policy approaches and their implications for child and maternal health.

Maldives

In 2014, the Maldives ranked 110th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with a strikingly low provision of 0 days. This lack of paid leave reflects broader challenges within the country's social and economic structures, where policies on family support have not substantially advanced.

The limited parental leave may be influenced by several factors, including the Maldives' economic reliance on tourism and the associated labor market dynamics, which often prioritize short-term employment contracts over long-term benefits. Additionally, cultural norms surrounding gender roles and family responsibilities may contribute to the absence of supportive leave policies for mothers.

Globally, the Maldives' situation is indicative of a broader trend in some regions where economic factors often overshadow the need for family-oriented policies. In contrast, many countries have recognized the importance of parental leave in promoting child welfare and gender equality, leading to a growing movement towards enhancing such benefits.

Palau

In 2014, Palau ranked 133rd out of 189 countries in terms of paid parental leave for mothers, offering a total of 0 days of paid leave. This lack of parental leave reflects broader challenges within the country's labor policies and social safety nets, which are influenced by its small population and economy primarily driven by tourism and fishing.

The absence of paid parental leave may stem from economic constraints and the prioritization of immediate labor needs over family support policies. In many cases, smaller nations like Palau may struggle to implement extensive welfare programs due to limited financial resources and administrative capacities.

It is noteworthy that maternal health and child welfare are critical global issues, and many countries have moved towards providing paid parental leave as a means to support families. In contrast, Palau's policy landscape indicates potential areas for development, particularly in enhancing family-friendly workplace policies to improve the well-being of mothers and children.

Malaysia

In 2014, Malaysia ranked 109th 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 formal paid parental leave highlights significant gaps in support for working mothers, which can impact both maternal health and child development.

The low ranking can be attributed to various factors, including cultural norms that prioritize traditional family structures and limited government policies aimed at enhancing work-life balance. Additionally, the economic focus on attracting foreign investment may have led to less emphasis on social welfare programs.

Globally, many countries provide substantial paid parental leave, with some offering over a year, thereby underscoring Malaysia's relatively restrictive stance. This lack of paid leave has implications for gender equality in the workplace, as it may deter women from pursuing careers or returning to work after childbirth.

Tanzania

Tanzania ranks 169th out of 189 countries in terms of paid parental leave for mothers, with an alarming statistic of 0 days offered. This lack of provision reflects broader challenges within the country's labor policies and social welfare systems, which often do not prioritize parental support.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to several factors, including limited economic resources, a high prevalence of informal employment, and cultural attitudes towards gender roles and family responsibilities. In many cases, women are expected to return to work shortly after childbirth, which can adversely affect both maternal and child health outcomes.

In contrast to Tanzania, many countries around the world offer significantly longer periods of paid parental leave, recognizing its importance for family bonding and the well-being of both parents and children. This disparity highlights the need for improved labor policies and social protections in Tanzania to support working mothers and promote gender equality in the workplace.

Philippines

In 2014, the Philippines ranked 138 out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with an alarming statistic of 0 days allocated for this purpose. This lack of paid parental leave highlights significant gaps in the country's social welfare policies, especially concerning maternal health and support for new families.

The absence of paid leave can be attributed to several factors, including economic constraints, cultural norms regarding gender roles, and limited legislative advocacy for women's rights. In a country where a sizable portion of the workforce is informal, the implementation of comprehensive maternity benefits remains a challenge.

Additionally, this statistic reflects broader issues related to women's rights and workplace equality in the Philippines, as many women continue to face barriers when balancing family responsibilities with employment. Comparatively, many countries worldwide have established more supportive parental leave policies to promote gender equality and child welfare.

Puerto Rico

In 2014, Puerto Rico ranked 140th out of 189 countries in terms of paid parental leave for mothers, with an alarming statistic of 0 days of paid leave. This lack of paid parental leave reflects broader issues within the labor and social welfare systems in Puerto Rico, where economic challenges and high levels of unemployment have hindered the implementation of supportive family policies.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to several factors, including the territory's economic struggles, budgetary constraints, and the influence of local legislation that does not mandate paid leave provisions. As a result, many new mothers in Puerto Rico face significant financial burdens during the crucial postpartum period, which can impact both maternal and child health.

Moreover, the lack of parental leave is not merely an isolated issue; it is indicative of broader disparities in social services and worker protections when compared to other regions. For instance, many countries in Europe offer extensive paid parental leave, often exceeding 12 months, highlighting the stark contrast in policies that support families.

Portugal

In 2014, Portugal ranked 13th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, offering a total of 42 days of paid leave. This duration reflects the country's commitment to supporting new mothers in balancing their professional and personal responsibilities during the critical early days of childcare.

The relatively short duration of paid parental leave in Portugal can be attributed to various factors, including economic conditions and labor market policies aimed at encouraging workforce participation among women. While the country has made strides in promoting gender equality, the leave policies are still evolving to better accommodate the needs of families.

Additionally, it is important to note that Portugal's parental leave system allows for a combination of paid leave and the option for parents to share the leave period, which can enhance family bonding and support both mothers and fathers in childcare responsibilities. This flexible approach reflects a broader trend among European countries aiming to improve family welfare.

Guinea-Bissau

In 2014, Guinea-Bissau ranked 80th 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 a significant gap in parental support policies within the country, reflecting broader challenges in social welfare and family support systems.

The absence of paid parental leave may be attributed to a combination of factors, including economic constraints, limited government resources, and a lack of prioritization of family welfare in national policy frameworks. As a developing nation, Guinea-Bissau faces numerous challenges, including political instability and high levels of poverty, which can impede the implementation of comprehensive family support programs.

Moreover, this lack of support might influence maternal health and child development outcomes, as mothers may be compelled to return to work shortly after childbirth. Studies in other countries have shown that adequate parental leave can lead to improved health outcomes for both mothers and children, highlighting the potential long-term benefits of such policies.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica ranked 53rd out of 189 countries in terms of paid parental leave for mothers in the year 2014. Notably, the country offered 0 days of paid parental leave, indicating a lack of formal support for new mothers during the critical postpartum period.

This absence of paid leave can be attributed to various factors including economic constraints, societal norms, and policy prioritization that may not have placed emphasis on family welfare at that time. Additionally, the labor market dynamics and the traditional roles assigned to mothers in Costa Rican society could influence the perception and implementation of parental leave policies.

In contrast to its regional counterparts, many Central American nations have begun to adopt more progressive policies regarding parental leave, reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of supporting families. This statistic highlights the ongoing need for policy reform in Costa Rica to better support working mothers and promote child welfare.

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