Length of paid parental leave for mother 2020

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	Mongolia	1,095 days
2	Tajikistan	475 days
3	South Korea	365 days
4	Japan	309 days
5	France	180 days
6	Italy	180 days
7	Luxembourg	180 days
8	Slovenia	130 days
9	Norway	126 days
10	Belgium	120 days
11	Croatia	120 days
12	Sweden	90 days
13	United States	70 days
14	Germany	60 days
15	Chile	42 days
16	Portugal	42 days
17	Canada	35 days
18	Romania	30 days
19	Ireland	14 days
20	United Arab Emirates	7 days
21	Afghanistan	0 days
22	Albania	0 days
23	Algeria	0 days
24	Angola	0 days
25	Antigua and Barbuda	0 days
26	Argentina	0 days
27	Armenia	0 days
28	Australia	0 days
29	Austria	0 days
30	Azerbaijan	0 days
31	Bahamas	0 days
32	Bahrain	0 days
33	Bangladesh	0 days
34	Barbados	0 days
35	Belarus	0 days
36	Belize	0 days
37	Benin	0 days
38	Bhutan	0 days
39	Bolivia	0 days
40	Bosnia and Herzegovina	0 days
41	Botswana	0 days
42	Brazil	0 days
43	Brunei Darussalam	0 days
44	Bulgaria	0 days
45	Burkina Faso	0 days
46	Burundi	0 days
47	Cabo Verde	0 days
48	Cambodia	0 days
49	Cameroon	0 days
50	Central African Republic	0 days
51	Chad	0 days
52	China	0 days
53	China, Hong Kong SAR	0 days
54	Colombia	0 days
55	Comoros	0 days
56	Congo	0 days
57	Congo, Democratic Republic of the	0 days
58	Costa Rica	0 days
59	Côte d'Ivoire	0 days
60	Cyprus	0 days
61	Czech Republic	0 days
62	Denmark	0 days
63	Djibouti	0 days
64	Dominica	0 days
65	Dominican Republic	0 days
66	Ecuador	0 days
67	Egypt	0 days
68	El Salvador	0 days
69	Equatorial Guinea	0 days
70	Eritrea	0 days
71	Estonia	0 days
72	Eswatini	0 days
73	Ethiopia	0 days
74	Fiji	0 days
75	Finland	0 days
76	Gabon	0 days
77	Gambia	0 days
78	Georgia	0 days
79	Ghana	0 days
80	Greece	0 days
81	Grenada	0 days
82	Guatemala	0 days
83	Guinea	0 days
84	Guinea-Bissau	0 days
85	Guyana	0 days
86	Haiti	0 days
87	Honduras	0 days
88	Hungary	0 days
89	Iceland	0 days
90	India	0 days
91	Indonesia	0 days
92	Iran	0 days
93	Iraq	0 days
94	Israel	0 days
95	Jamaica	0 days
96	Jordan	0 days
97	Kazakhstan	0 days
98	Kenya	0 days
99	Kiribati	0 days
100	Kosovo	0 days
101	Kuwait	0 days
102	Kyrgyzstan	0 days
103	Laos	0 days
104	Latvia	0 days
105	Lebanon	0 days
106	Lesotho	0 days
107	Liberia	0 days
108	Libya	0 days
109	Lithuania	0 days
110	Madagascar	0 days
111	Malawi	0 days
112	Malaysia	0 days
113	Maldives	0 days
114	Mali	0 days
115	Malta	0 days
116	Marshall Islands	0 days
117	Mauritania	0 days
118	Mauritius	0 days
119	Mexico	0 days
120	Micronesia (Fed. States of)	0 days
121	Montenegro	0 days
122	Morocco	0 days
123	Mozambique	0 days
124	Myanmar	0 days
125	Namibia	0 days
126	Nepal	0 days
127	Netherlands	0 days
128	New Zealand	0 days
129	Nicaragua	0 days
130	Niger	0 days
131	Nigeria	0 days
132	North Macedonia	0 days
133	Oman	0 days
134	Pakistan	0 days
135	Palau	0 days
136	Panama	0 days
137	Papua New Guinea	0 days
138	Paraguay	0 days
139	Peru	0 days
140	Philippines	0 days
141	Poland	0 days
142	Puerto Rico	0 days
143	Qatar	0 days
144	Republic of Moldova	0 days
145	Russia	0 days
146	Rwanda	0 days
147	Saint Kitts and Nevis	0 days
148	Saint Lucia	0 days
149	Saint Vincent and the Grenadines	0 days
150	Samoa	0 days
151	San Marino	0 days
152	Sao Tome and Principe	0 days
153	Saudi Arabia	0 days
154	Senegal	0 days
155	Serbia	0 days
156	Seychelles	0 days
157	Sierra Leone	0 days
158	Singapore	0 days
159	Slovakia	0 days
160	Solomon Islands	0 days
161	Somalia	0 days
162	South Africa	0 days
163	South Sudan	0 days
164	Spain	0 days
165	Sri Lanka	0 days
166	State of Palestine	0 days
167	Sudan	0 days
168	Suriname	0 days
169	Switzerland	0 days
170	Syrian Arab Republic	0 days
171	Tanzania	0 days
172	Thailand	0 days
173	Timor-Leste	0 days
174	Togo	0 days
175	Tonga	0 days
176	Trinidad and Tobago	0 days
177	Tunisia	0 days
178	Turkey	0 days
179	Uganda	0 days
180	Ukraine	0 days
181	United Kingdom	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 crucial metric that reflects a country's commitment to supporting family well-being and workforce participation. In 2020, this social issue gained prominence as nations grappled with balancing economic demands and familial responsibilities. Understanding the global landscape of paid parental leave can provide valuable insights into societal priorities and economic structures across different regions. This article delves into the statistics and trends surrounding the length of paid parental leave for mothers in 2020, exploring its implications for society at large.

Global Landscape of Paid Parental Leave in 2020

The length of paid parental leave for mothers varied tremendously across the 189 countries surveyed in 2020. This disparity highlights differing national policies and social norms regarding parental responsibilities. Mongolia emerged as a leader, offering 1,095 days of paid leave, a policy reflecting deep societal investment in early childhood caregiving and family stability. In contrast, ten countries, including Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bolivia, and Bhutan, provided no paid parental leave, revealing a significant gap in support for working mothers. The average global length of parental leave stood at 19.42 days, with a median of zero, underscoring the vast divergence in global practices.

The variation in paid parental leave policies is not merely a matter of social policy but also an economic consideration. Countries offering extended leave, like Mongolia and South Korea (365 days), may experience short-term economic costs due to workforce absence. However, these policies can lead to long-term benefits such as improved child health outcomes and increased female workforce participation. In contrast, countries with minimal or no paid leave may face challenges such as higher rates of maternal stress and lower female employment rates. In these nations, women often face the difficult choice between career advancement and family commitments, which can perpetuate gender inequality in the workplace.

Regional Comparisons and Cultural Influences

Examining regional patterns reveals how cultural and economic contexts influence paid parental leave policies. European countries like Italy, France, and Luxembourg offer generous leave, each providing 180 days. This reflects the region's focus on work-life balance and gender equality. Meanwhile, many African and Middle Eastern countries, such as Benin and Bahrain, offer no paid leave, which may stem from differing cultural norms and economic constraints. These regional disparities highlight the complex interplay between cultural expectations, economic capabilities, and policy decisions.

Recent Changes and Trends

While the global average length of paid parental leave remained largely unchanged in 2020, with an average decrease of just 0.17 days, some countries experienced notable shifts. Tajikistan saw the most significant decrease, reducing leave by three days to 475, reflecting potential economic pressures or policy revisions. Despite these small changes, the lack of growth in paid leave length in most countries suggests a stagnation in policy development, possibly exacerbated by the economic uncertainties brought on by the global pandemic. This period of stasis emphasizes the need for renewed policy discussions to ensure parental support keeps pace with evolving societal needs.

Policy Impact and Future Directions

The diverse landscape of paid parental leave policies underscores the importance of government intervention in shaping family-friendly environments. As countries navigate the post-pandemic recovery, there is an opportunity to re-evaluate and enhance parental leave policies. Investments in extended leave can foster healthier family dynamics, reduce gender disparities in the workforce, and contribute to a more equitable society. Policymakers must consider these factors when crafting legislation that supports both economic growth and social well-being. By prioritizing comprehensive paid parental leave, nations can move towards a future where family and work obligations are harmoniously balanced.

Insights by country

Canada

In 2020, Canada ranked 17th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers. Specifically, mothers are entitled to 35 days of paid parental leave, which can be taken in conjunction with additional parental leave benefits available to both parents.

This relatively moderate duration of paid leave reflects Canada's commitment to supporting families while also balancing workforce participation and economic productivity. The Canadian parental leave system allows for a total of up to 18 months of leave, which can be shared between parents, indicating a progressive approach to family and gender equality.

Factors influencing the structure of parental leave in Canada include societal norms that advocate for shared parenting responsibilities, as well as economic considerations aimed at encouraging both mothers and fathers to remain engaged in the labor force. Notably, many countries offer varying lengths of leave, with some providing significantly more than Canada's 35 days, highlighting the diverse approaches to family leave policies worldwide.

Rwanda

In 2020, Rwanda ranked 146th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, offering a total of 0 days. This statistic highlights the significant gap in parental support within the country, particularly for new mothers who face challenges in balancing work and childcare responsibilities.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to various factors, including economic constraints and a focus on labor market policies that prioritize workforce participation over family welfare. Additionally, Rwanda's ongoing efforts to rebuild and develop its economy post-genocide may have led to a more limited focus on social support systems.

In contrast, many countries around the world provide substantial parental leave, with some offering over a year of paid leave, reflecting differing cultural values and economic priorities regarding family and child-rearing support.

Albania

In 2020, Albania ranked 22nd 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 parental support, as many countries offer substantial paid leave to assist mothers in the early stages of childcare.

The absence of paid parental leave in Albania can be attributed to various socio-economic factors, including limited government resources and prioritization of other economic sectors over family welfare programs. Additionally, cultural norms may also play a role, where traditional family structures often expect family members to provide informal support rather than relying on state provisions.

It is noteworthy that many countries with similar economic conditions provide some level of paid parental leave, emphasizing the potential for policy reform in Albania to enhance support for new mothers and promote better family health outcomes.

Bahrain

Bahrain ranks 32nd out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, indicating a relatively low provision for new mothers. In the year 2020, the country offered 0 days of paid parental leave, which highlights significant gaps in support for working mothers during the crucial early stages of child-rearing.

This absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to various factors, including the country's economic priorities and labor market conditions. Bahrain's commitment to maintaining a competitive business environment may lead to minimal governmental mandates regarding employee benefits, including parental leave.

While many countries are moving towards enhanced parental support policies, Bahrain's approach reflects a broader trend in some Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations, where cultural and economic factors often influence labor laws. This statistic also raises discussions about gender equality in the workplace, as the lack of paid leave can disproportionately impact women’s career advancement and family planning.

Guyana

In 2020, Guyana ranked 85th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with an official provision of 0 days. This lack of paid parental leave reflects broader issues within the country's labor policies and social welfare systems.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to a combination of economic constraints, limited government resources, and a focus on other pressing social issues. Furthermore, cultural norms around gender roles and caregiving may also influence the policy landscape, leading to a lack of prioritization for maternal benefits.

Globally, many countries have recognized the importance of paid parental leave in promoting child health and maternal well-being, with varying durations and benefits. Guyana's situation highlights a significant gap in support for new mothers, which could affect workforce participation and child development outcomes in the long term.

Brazil

In 2020, Brazil ranked 42nd out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, which was recorded at 0 days. This ranking indicates a significant gap in parental leave policies compared to many other nations, where paid leave is more commonly provided to support new mothers and families.

The lack of paid parental leave in Brazil can be attributed to various factors, including economic challenges and differing cultural attitudes toward parental responsibilities. While Brazil does have a legal framework that allows for maternity leave, many women find themselves without adequate financial support during this critical period, which can impact both their well-being and that of their newborns.

In contrast, several countries around the world offer comprehensive paid parental leave, recognizing its importance for child development and maternal health. For example, countries like Sweden and Norway provide extensive leave periods, reflecting a societal commitment to family welfare and gender equality.

Iran

In 2020, Iran ranked 92nd out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with a total of 0 days available. This statistic highlights a significant gap in parental support when compared to many other nations that provide paid leave to new mothers as part of their social welfare policies.

The absence of paid parental leave in Iran may be influenced by various factors, including economic constraints, cultural attitudes towards gender roles, and a focus on immediate labor market participation. Societal expectations often place pressure on women to return to work quickly after childbirth, which can perpetuate gender inequality in both the workplace and home environments.

In contrast, many countries around the world have recognized the importance of parental leave for child development and maternal health, leading to policies that support extended paid leave. For example, countries such as Sweden and Norway offer substantial paid parental leave, reflecting a commitment to family welfare and gender equality.

Belize

In 2020, Belize ranked 36th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, a statistic that reveals a notable aspect of the nation's labor policies. The country provides 0 days of paid parental leave for mothers, indicating a lack of formal support for new mothers in the workforce.

This absence of paid leave could be attributed to various factors, including economic constraints, cultural attitudes towards parental roles, and the prioritization of other social policies over maternal welfare. In many cases, such policies may reflect the broader economic conditions and resources available within Belize, which is a small developing nation.

Globally, the trend towards paid parental leave is gaining traction, with many countries recognizing the importance of supporting families during the transition to parenthood. The lack of paid leave in Belize highlights the challenges faced by working mothers, who may need to balance employment with childcare responsibilities without formal financial support.

Eswatini

In 2020, Eswatini ranked 72nd out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with an official provision of 0 days. This lack of paid leave reflects broader challenges in the nation’s labor policies and social welfare systems, where support for new mothers is minimal.

The absence of paid parental leave in Eswatini may be influenced by various factors, including limited economic resources, a significant informal labor market, and cultural norms that prioritize immediate economic contributions over parental support. Moreover, the country's focus on economic development may result in less emphasis on comprehensive family welfare policies.

In comparison, many countries around the world offer substantial paid parental leave, recognizing its importance for child development and maternal health. For instance, Scandinavian countries typically provide up to a year of paid leave, highlighting a stark contrast to Eswatini's policy landscape.

Gambia

In 2020, Gambia ranked 77th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, which was recorded at 0 days. This statistic highlights the absence of formal paid parental leave policies for mothers, which is indicative of broader challenges in the country’s labor laws and social welfare systems.

The lack of paid parental leave in Gambia can be attributed to a combination of limited economic resources, a reliance on informal employment, and insufficient legislative frameworks that prioritize maternal health and child welfare. This situation often forces mothers to return to work shortly after childbirth, potentially impacting their health and the well-being of their infants.

Globally, the average length of paid parental leave varies significantly, with many developed nations offering substantial leave periods to support families. In contrast, Gambia's policy gap reflects a broader trend in several developing countries where economic constraints hinder the implementation of supportive family policies.

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

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