Length of paid parental leave for mother 2016

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	France	180 days
5	Italy	180 days
6	Luxembourg	180 days
7	Slovenia	130 days
8	Belgium	120 days
9	Croatia	120 days
10	Norway	91 days
11	Sweden	90 days
12	Germany	60 days
13	Chile	42 days
14	Portugal	42 days
15	Romania	30 days
16	Afghanistan	0 days
17	Albania	0 days
18	Algeria	0 days
19	Angola	0 days
20	Antigua and Barbuda	0 days
21	Argentina	0 days
22	Armenia	0 days
23	Australia	0 days
24	Austria	0 days
25	Azerbaijan	0 days
26	Bahamas	0 days
27	Bahrain	0 days
28	Bangladesh	0 days
29	Barbados	0 days
30	Belarus	0 days
31	Belize	0 days
32	Benin	0 days
33	Bhutan	0 days
34	Bolivia	0 days
35	Bosnia and Herzegovina	0 days
36	Botswana	0 days
37	Brazil	0 days
38	Brunei Darussalam	0 days
39	Bulgaria	0 days
40	Burkina Faso	0 days
41	Burundi	0 days
42	Cabo Verde	0 days
43	Cambodia	0 days
44	Cameroon	0 days
45	Canada	0 days
46	Central African Republic	0 days
47	Chad	0 days
48	China	0 days
49	China, Hong Kong SAR	0 days
50	Colombia	0 days
51	Comoros	0 days
52	Congo	0 days
53	Congo, Democratic Republic of the	0 days
54	Costa Rica	0 days
55	Côte d'Ivoire	0 days
56	Cyprus	0 days
57	Czech Republic	0 days
58	Denmark	0 days
59	Djibouti	0 days
60	Dominica	0 days
61	Dominican Republic	0 days
62	Ecuador	0 days
63	Egypt	0 days
64	El Salvador	0 days
65	Equatorial Guinea	0 days
66	Eritrea	0 days
67	Estonia	0 days
68	Eswatini	0 days
69	Ethiopia	0 days
70	Fiji	0 days
71	Finland	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 social issue that reflects a country's commitment to family well-being and gender equality. In 2016, this metric varied significantly across the globe, highlighting disparities in social policies and cultural values. Understanding these variations provides insights into how nations prioritize parental responsibilities and workforce participation.

Global Overview of Paid Parental Leave in 2016

The year 2016 saw a wide range of parental leave durations for mothers across 189 countries. The minimum leave offered was 0 days, observed in nations like Belarus, Barbados, and Bangladesh, indicating a complete lack of paid leave provisions. In stark contrast, Tajikistan topped the list with an impressive 478 days of paid leave, followed by South Korea with 365 days and Japan with 309 days. These differences underscore varying approaches to supporting working mothers and the challenges they face in balancing professional and parental obligations.

Regional Comparisons: A Snapshot of Disparities

The disparity in paid parental leave is not just a matter of national policy but also reflects broader regional trends. European countries such as Luxembourg, Italy, and France provide between 180 and 120 days of leave, showcasing a regional commitment to supporting family life. Meanwhile, several countries in regions like the Caribbean and parts of Asia, including the Bahamas and Bahrain, offer no paid parental leave, pointing to potential cultural and economic barriers. These regional patterns reveal how socio-economic conditions and cultural norms influence parental leave policies.

Economic Implications of Parental Leave Policies

The economic impact of paid parental leave is profound, affecting both the workforce and family incomes. Countries with generous leave policies, like those in Europe and Asia, often see higher female workforce participation rates. For instance, with 365 days of leave, South Korea supports mothers in maintaining their careers long-term, which can lead to a more balanced gender representation in the workplace. Conversely, countries with no paid leave may experience higher dropout rates for women in the workforce, impacting overall economic productivity and growth.

Year-over-Year Trends and Policy Changes

In 2016, notable year-over-year changes highlighted the dynamic nature of parental leave policies. On average, there was a modest increase of 3.3% in paid leave duration, with Sweden showing a significant rise of 50%, adding 30 days to its policy. Such increases reflect a growing recognition of the importance of parental leave in promoting child development and gender equality. However, many countries, including top providers like Tajikistan and South Korea, maintained static levels, indicating that despite global awareness, not all nations adjusted their policies in this period.

The effects of paid parental leave extend beyond economics, deeply influencing social dynamics and family structures. Extended leave allows mothers to bond with their newborns, promoting better health outcomes for both mother and child. In countries like Japan and South Korea, robust leave policies are part of broader societal efforts to address declining birth rates and aging populations by encouraging families to have more children. In contrast, nations without such support may face challenges, including lower birth rates and increased childcare burdens on families.

The 2016 global landscape of paid parental leave for mothers underscores the importance of supportive policies in fostering equitable and prosperous societies. By examining the variations and implications of these policies, we gain a deeper understanding of how nations can improve family well-being and economic resilience. As the world continues to evolve, further adaptations in parental leave provisions will likely play a crucial role in shaping future socio-economic landscapes.

Insights by country

Bulgaria

In 2016, Bulgaria ranked 39th out of 189 countries concerning the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with a striking 0 days of paid leave available. This statistic highlights the limited support for new mothers in the country, which can significantly impact child health and maternal well-being.

The absence of paid parental leave may be attributed to various factors, including economic constraints, a focus on labor market participation, and potential cultural attitudes towards motherhood and family care. The lack of a supportive framework for paid leave can lead to challenges for working mothers, including difficulties in balancing their professional and family responsibilities.

Additionally, it is important to note that many European countries offer significantly longer periods of paid parental leave, which can range from several months to over a year. This disparity emphasizes the need for policy reforms in Bulgaria to enhance support for families and promote gender equality in the workplace.

Singapore

In 2016, Singapore ranked 156 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 country's relatively low support for maternal leave compared to many other nations, which often provide several weeks or months of paid leave to new mothers.

The absence of paid parental leave in Singapore can be attributed to various factors, including the country's economic policies that prioritize workforce participation and a competitive labor market. Additionally, the cultural emphasis on personal responsibility and the traditional family structure may influence the government's approach to parental leave policies.

Interestingly, while Singapore provides no paid parental leave, it does offer a range of other family-friendly policies, such as government subsidies for childcare and flexible work arrangements, aimed at supporting working parents. However, the lack of paid leave remains a significant concern for many advocates of family welfare and gender equality in the workforce.

United Kingdom

In 2016, the United Kingdom ranked 180th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with a total of 0 days. This ranking highlights the country's relatively limited support for new parents compared to many other nations, reflecting a significant gap in the provision of parental leave benefits.

The lack of paid parental leave can be attributed to various factors, including economic considerations and policy choices that prioritize short-term employment flexibility over long-term family support. In the UK, while statutory maternity leave is available, it is primarily unpaid after a certain period, which can deter parents from taking full advantage of the leave options.

Interestingly, many countries with similar economic profiles to the UK provide more generous parental leave policies, recognizing the importance of supporting families during the early stages of child development. This discrepancy raises questions about the societal values placed on family welfare and the well-being of new parents in the UK.

Tajikistan

Tajikistan ranks first out of 189 countries for the length of paid parental leave for mothers in 2016, offering an impressive total of 478 days of paid leave. This extensive duration reflects the country's commitment to supporting families and promoting maternal health.

The long duration of paid parental leave in Tajikistan can be attributed to several factors, including cultural norms that prioritize family well-being and government policies aimed at increasing birth rates in a nation with a relatively low fertility rate. Such policies are part of broader social welfare initiatives designed to enhance the quality of life for citizens.

Additionally, this generous leave policy may have positive implications for child development and maternal health, as extended time away from work allows mothers to bond with their newborns and recover from childbirth. Comparatively, many countries offer significantly shorter parental leave, highlighting Tajikistan's unique position in this regard.

Ukraine

In 2016, Ukraine ranked 178th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with a notable value of 0 days. This statistic reflects a significant gap in social support policies aimed at families and new mothers, indicating a lack of government provisions for parental leave.

The absence of paid parental leave in Ukraine can be attributed to various factors, including economic constraints, ongoing political instability, and inadequate social welfare systems. These challenges have historically hindered the government's ability to implement comprehensive family support policies.

Interestingly, Ukraine's situation contrasts sharply with many European countries, where paid parental leave can extend up to several months or even years. This disparity highlights the need for policy reform to enhance family support and promote gender equality in the workforce.

State of Palestine

In 2016, the State of Palestine ranked 164th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with a total of 0 days of paid leave. This statistic highlights a significant gap in maternity benefits compared to many other nations, where paid parental leave is a critical aspect of supporting new mothers and promoting child welfare.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to various socio-economic and political factors, including the ongoing conflict, economic instability, and limited resources within the Palestinian territories. These conditions often hinder the development and implementation of comprehensive social welfare policies.

Furthermore, this lack of support for new mothers may have longer-term implications for child health and maternal well-being, as research indicates that paid parental leave can foster better outcomes for both mothers and infants. In contrast, many countries globally provide substantial parental leave, recognizing its importance in family and child development.

Zimbabwe

In 2016, Zimbabwe ranked 189 out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with a total of 0 days allotted. This statistic highlights a significant gap in maternal support and reflects broader issues within the country's labor policies and social welfare systems.

The absence of paid parental leave in Zimbabwe can be attributed to various factors, including economic challenges, limited resources, and a lack of comprehensive labor laws protecting workers' rights. The country's struggling economy has prioritized immediate financial concerns over the implementation of extensive family support programs.

Furthermore, Zimbabwe's health care system has faced significant challenges, which may compound the difficulties mothers experience during and after childbirth. This situation stands in contrast to global trends, where many countries are increasingly recognizing the importance of parental leave for child health and family well-being.

Tanzania

Tanzania ranks 169th out of 189 countries regarding the provision of paid parental leave for mothers, a stark indicator of the country's policies surrounding maternal support. In 2016, the official length of paid parental leave for mothers in Tanzania was recorded at 0 days, highlighting a significant lack of statutory benefits for new mothers.

This absence of paid leave can be attributed to various factors, including limited economic resources, a focus on labor market flexibility, and cultural attitudes towards gender roles and family responsibilities. The lack of formal support structures for maternal leave may negatively impact women's participation in the workforce and contribute to broader gender inequality in the country.

Interestingly, many countries in the region have begun to recognize the importance of paid parental leave, with several African nations implementing or expanding their parental leave policies in recent years. This disparity emphasizes the need for ongoing advocacy and reform in Tanzania to improve maternal health and support for families.

United Arab Emirates

In 2016, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) ranked 179 out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with an official policy stating 0 days of paid leave. This ranking highlights a significant gap in parental support compared to many other nations, particularly in the context of global standards for maternity benefits.

The lack of paid parental leave may be influenced by the UAE's labor market dynamics, where expatriate workers constitute a large portion of the workforce, and cultural norms that traditionally do not prioritize maternity leave as part of employment benefits. Additionally, the UAE's rapid economic development and focus on attracting foreign investment may contribute to minimal statutory leave provisions.

Interestingly, while the UAE offers no paid parental leave for mothers, it is part of a broader trend observed in various countries where economic priorities often overshadow social welfare policies. In contrast, many nations in Europe and parts of Asia provide extensive maternity leave benefits, reflecting different societal values regarding family support and work-life balance.

Guatemala

In 2016, Guatemala ranked 78th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, providing a mere 0 days of paid leave. This statistic underscores significant gaps in support for maternal health and family welfare in the country.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to a combination of factors, including economic constraints, cultural norms, and a lack of legislative frameworks that prioritize family support policies. In many cases, women in Guatemala face challenges in balancing work and family responsibilities without the necessary financial assistance during maternity.

Moreover, this situation reflects a broader trend in many developing nations where labor rights may not be fully protected, leading to disparities in maternal care and child health outcomes. For context, countries with more extensive parental leave policies often report better health and developmental indicators for children, highlighting the importance of such policies in promoting family well-being.

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