Length of paid parental leave for mother 2021

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	475 days
2	South Korea	365 days
3	Japan	309 days
4	France	180 days
5	Iceland	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	84 days
14	Germany	60 days
15	Greece	60 days
16	Chile	42 days
17	Portugal	42 days
18	Canada	35 days
19	Ireland	35 days
20	Romania	30 days
21	United Arab Emirates	7 days
22	Afghanistan	0 days
23	Albania	0 days
24	Algeria	0 days
25	Angola	0 days
26	Antigua and Barbuda	0 days
27	Argentina	0 days
28	Armenia	0 days
29	Australia	0 days
30	Austria	0 days
31	Azerbaijan	0 days
32	Bahamas	0 days
33	Bahrain	0 days
34	Bangladesh	0 days
35	Barbados	0 days
36	Belarus	0 days
37	Belize	0 days
38	Benin	0 days
39	Bhutan	0 days
40	Bolivia	0 days
41	Bosnia and Herzegovina	0 days
42	Botswana	0 days
43	Brazil	0 days
44	Brunei Darussalam	0 days
45	Bulgaria	0 days
46	Burkina Faso	0 days
47	Burundi	0 days
48	Cabo Verde	0 days
49	Cambodia	0 days
50	Cameroon	0 days
51	Central African Republic	0 days
52	Chad	0 days
53	China	0 days
54	China, Hong Kong SAR	0 days
55	Colombia	0 days
56	Comoros	0 days
57	Congo	0 days
58	Congo, Democratic Republic of the	0 days
59	Costa Rica	0 days
60	Côte d'Ivoire	0 days
61	Cyprus	0 days
62	Czech Republic	0 days
63	Denmark	0 days
64	Djibouti	0 days
65	Dominica	0 days
66	Dominican Republic	0 days
67	Ecuador	0 days
68	Egypt	0 days
69	El Salvador	0 days
70	Equatorial Guinea	0 days
71	Eritrea	0 days
72	Estonia	0 days
73	Eswatini	0 days
74	Ethiopia	0 days
75	Fiji	0 days
76	Finland	0 days
77	Gabon	0 days
78	Gambia	0 days
79	Georgia	0 days
80	Ghana	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	India	0 days
90	Indonesia	0 days
91	Iran	0 days
92	Iraq	0 days
93	Israel	0 days
94	Jamaica	0 days
95	Jordan	0 days
96	Kazakhstan	0 days
97	Kenya	0 days
98	Kiribati	0 days
99	Kosovo	0 days
100	Kuwait	0 days
101	Kyrgyzstan	0 days
102	Laos	0 days
103	Latvia	0 days
104	Lebanon	0 days
105	Lesotho	0 days
106	Liberia	0 days
107	Libya	0 days
108	Lithuania	0 days
109	Madagascar	0 days
110	Malawi	0 days
111	Malaysia	0 days
112	Maldives	0 days
113	Mali	0 days
114	Malta	0 days
115	Marshall Islands	0 days
116	Mauritania	0 days
117	Mauritius	0 days
118	Mexico	0 days
119	Micronesia (Fed. States of)	0 days
120	Mongolia	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

In 2021, the length of paid parental leave for mothers varied significantly across the globe, reflecting a tapestry of policies that influence family well-being and economic participation. This metric is pivotal in understanding how different countries prioritize maternity leave, impacting both parents' roles at home and their return to the workforce. By analyzing the global statistics, we can uncover insights into each country's approach to supporting new mothers during one of the most critical times in their lives.

Global Perspectives on Paid Parental Leave

The landscape of paid parental leave for mothers in 2021 showcased a wide range of approaches. With data from 189 countries, the length of paid leave varied dramatically. Tajikistan stood at the forefront with a generous 475 days of paid parental leave, highlighting its commitment to nurturing family well-being. In contrast, several countries, including Botswana, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Bolivia, offered no paid parental leave, underscoring significant disparities in parental support systems.

Regional Contrasts and Influences

Regional differences were stark in 2021, with European countries generally offering more extensive paid parental leave than their counterparts in other continents. Notably, nations like Iceland, Luxembourg, and France each provided 180 days of paid leave, reflecting a strong societal value placed on family support. In Asia, South Korea and Japan demonstrated a robust parental leave policy with 365 and 309 days respectively. These contrasts are often influenced by historical, cultural, and economic factors, and signify a broader commitment to gender equality and child welfare within different societies.

Economic and Policy Impacts

Paid parental leave policies have profound economic implications, influencing women's participation in the workforce and overall economic productivity. Countries with robust leave policies often see higher female workforce participation rates, as these policies facilitate a smoother transition back to work for new mothers. For instance, the moderate increases in paid leave observed in countries like Ireland (+21 days) and the United States (+14 days) indicate a gradual shift towards recognizing the economic importance of supporting working mothers. Conversely, the drastic decrease in Mongolia, with a reduction of 1095 days, highlights how abrupt policy changes can pose challenges to both individuals and the broader economy.

Historical Trends and Future Directions

Over recent years, there has been an evolving trend towards increasing the duration and inclusiveness of paid parental leave. While the average change in 2021 was a decrease of 53 days, this statistic is skewed by significant outlier changes, such as Mongolia's reduction. The broader trend, however, suggests a positive shift towards improved leave policies. As countries continue to recognize the importance of family-friendly policies, it is anticipated that more nations will increase their parental leave durations. This movement is crucial for fostering a more equitable and supportive environment for families worldwide.

Demographic and Societal Implications

The length of paid parental leave has direct implications on demographic patterns and societal structures. Longer leave periods can encourage higher birth rates, as families feel more secure in their ability to care for new children. Countries offering extensive leave, like Tajikistan, may also benefit from improved child health outcomes, as prolonged maternal presence can contribute to better early childhood development. On a societal level, these policies promote gender equality by enabling both parents to participate actively in child-rearing, thus redefining traditional gender roles and contributing to a more balanced workforce and home life.

The data from 2021 underscores the critical role of paid parental leave in shaping not just family dynamics, but also national economic and social landscapes. As global trends continue to evolve, the length of paid parental leave for mothers remains a pivotal indicator of a country's dedication to family support, gender equality, and economic prosperity. By fostering inclusive policies, nations can ensure that all families are equipped to thrive in both personal and professional spheres.

Insights by country

Serbia

In 2021, Serbia ranked 155th out of 189 countries in terms of the length of paid parental leave for mothers, which was recorded at 0 days. This statistic highlights a significant gap in parental support when compared to many other nations that offer paid leave as a standard practice for new mothers.

The absence of paid parental leave in Serbia can be attributed to various socioeconomic factors, including economic constraints and a lack of comprehensive family policies. While Serbia does provide maternity leave benefits, they may not be classified under paid parental leave in the same manner as seen in other countries.

Interestingly, the overall global trend has been toward increasing parental support, with many nations recognizing the importance of parental leave in promoting child welfare and gender equality. The stark contrast in Serbia's policy raises questions about the prioritization of family support within the country's social policy framework.

Egypt

In 2021, Egypt ranked 68th 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 a significant gap in parental support policies in the country, which may impact maternal health and family well-being.

The lack of paid parental leave can be attributed to various factors, including economic constraints, cultural attitudes towards gender roles, and insufficient government policies aimed at supporting working mothers. In many cases, the absence of such benefits may lead to increased challenges for women in balancing work and family responsibilities.

Comparatively, many countries provide extensive parental leave, reflecting differing societal values and government support systems. Such disparities emphasize the need for policy reform in Egypt to enhance support for families and promote gender equality in the workplace.

Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan ranks 101 out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with an alarming statistic of 0 days of paid leave in the year 2021. This ranking highlights the significant challenges faced by working mothers in the country, as they are not afforded any financial support during the critical postpartum period.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to a combination of economic constraints and cultural factors that prioritize immediate workforce participation over family support systems. The lack of policies aimed at supporting maternal health and child development may also reflect broader trends in gender inequality and economic development within Kyrgyzstan.

In comparison, many countries offer substantial periods of paid leave, recognizing the importance of maternal well-being and child bonding post-birth. This discrepancy underscores the need for policy reforms in Kyrgyzstan to enhance women's rights and improve family welfare through supportive legislation.

Czech Republic

In 2021, the Czech Republic ranked 62nd out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with a value of 0 days. This statistic reflects the country's approach to parental leave, which has been characterized by limited support for new mothers in comparison to many other nations.

The absence of paid parental leave may be influenced by a combination of economic factors, cultural attitudes towards gender roles, and government policies that prioritize other areas of social spending. Additionally, the Czech Republic offers a system of parental benefits that, while not classified as paid leave, allows parents to take time off work while receiving financial support based on previous earnings.

Interestingly, many countries in the European Union offer significantly longer periods of paid parental leave, often exceeding several months, which highlights the disparity in parental support systems across different nations. This lack of paid leave can potentially affect maternal health, child development, and gender equality in the workplace.

Barbados

In 2021, Barbados ranked 35th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, which is notably 0 days. This lack of paid parental leave places Barbados in a category with minimal support for new mothers in the workforce, potentially affecting child health and family well-being.

The absence of paid parental leave in Barbados may be influenced by several factors, including economic constraints, labor market dynamics, and cultural attitudes towards parental responsibilities. In many Caribbean nations, there is a prevailing reliance on informal support systems, which can lead to less emphasis on formalized parental leave policies.

Furthermore, the region has been experiencing discussions around gender equality and the need for improved family support policies, highlighting a growing awareness of the importance of paid parental leave as a means to enhance maternal and child health outcomes. Comparative studies show that countries with robust parental leave policies often report better health indicators and family satisfaction.

Croatia

Croatia ranks 11th out of 189 countries in terms of the length of paid parental leave for mothers. In 2021, mothers in Croatia are entitled to 120 days of paid parental leave, a policy designed to support family welfare and child development during the early stages of a child's life.

This generous leave duration reflects Croatia's commitment to promoting work-life balance and encouraging family-oriented policies. Factors contributing to this notable ranking include the country's emphasis on social welfare programs and the government’s recognition of the importance of maternal health and bonding with newborns.

Additionally, this policy aligns with broader European Union standards aimed at improving parental leave provisions across member states, thereby enhancing gender equality in the workplace and supporting the well-being of families.

Bosnia and Herzegovina

In 2021, Bosnia and Herzegovina ranked 41st out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers, with an alarming statistic of 0 days of paid leave. This absence of paid parental leave reflects a broader trend in the region where social policies often lag behind those in more developed nations, impacting the well-being of families and the support for new mothers.

The lack of paid parental leave can be attributed to several factors, including economic constraints, political instability, and a focus on other social issues that take precedence in policy discussions. This absence of support may lead to adverse outcomes for both mothers and children, as financial pressures can affect maternal health and child development.

Comparatively, many European countries offer extensive parental leave, often exceeding one year, highlighting the significant gap in family support systems in Bosnia and Herzegovina. This situation raises concerns about gender equality and workforce participation, as mothers are often forced to choose between their careers and family responsibilities.

Congo

Congo ranks 57th out of 189 countries in terms of paid parental leave for mothers, with a total of 0 days allocated for this benefit in the year 2021. This lack of paid parental leave highlights significant gaps in maternal support and work-life balance policies within the country.

The absence of paid parental leave can be attributed to various factors, including economic constraints, inadequate labor laws, and a focus on immediate productivity over long-term workforce sustainability. These challenges are compounded by social norms that may not prioritize maternal health and well-being post-delivery.

In contrast, many countries offer significantly longer periods of paid parental leave, which can help promote maternal and child health, strengthen family bonds, and support gender equality in the workplace. The disparity in parental leave policies also reflects broader socioeconomic conditions and governmental priorities regarding family welfare in Congo.

Belarus

In 2021, Belarus ranked 36th out of 189 countries regarding the length of paid parental leave for mothers. Notably, the country offers 0 days of paid parental leave, which places it among a small number of countries worldwide that do not provide financial support for mothers during the early stages of child-rearing.

This lack of paid parental leave may be influenced by various socio-economic factors, including the government's approach to family policy and labor market conditions. Belarus has historically emphasized economic productivity, which may limit the prioritization of parental benefits.

Interestingly, many countries in Europe and elsewhere provide significantly longer periods of paid parental leave, often extending to several months or even years. This contrast highlights the ongoing discussions regarding work-life balance and the support structures available to families in Belarus.

Saint Kitts and Nevis

In 2021, Saint Kitts and Nevis ranked 147th out of 189 countries in terms of paid parental leave for mothers, with a total of 0 days offered. This lack of statutory paid parental leave reflects broader trends in the Caribbean region, where many countries have limited provisions for parental support.

The absence of paid parental leave in Saint Kitts and Nevis can be attributed to various factors, including economic constraints and a focus on labor market flexibility, which may prioritize immediate workforce participation over family support policies. Additionally, cultural attitudes towards child-rearing and gender roles may influence the perception and implementation of parental leave policies.

Interestingly, many countries around the world are increasingly recognizing the importance of paid parental leave for child development and gender equality, with countries like Sweden and Norway offering extensive leave provisions. This highlights a growing global trend towards supporting families, contrasting sharply with the situation in Saint Kitts and Nevis.

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