Paid maternity leave is a crucial benefit that supports new mothers during the early stages of their child's life.
It allows them to recover from childbirth and bond with their newborns without the added stress of financial instability.
According to EuroDev, here are the 10 countries that offer the longest paid maternity leaves:
Bulgaria
Bulgaria leads the world with an impressive 58.6 weeks of paid maternity leave. This extensive leave period is designed to support mothers and ensure they have ample time to care for their newborns.
Albania
In Albania, mothers are entitled to 52 weeks of paid maternity leave. This generous policy reflects the country's commitment to supporting families and promoting work-life balance.
Bosnia
Bosnia also offers 52 weeks of paid maternity leave, providing substantial support to new mothers. This policy helps ensure that mothers can take the necessary time off without financial worries.
Slovakia
Slovakia provides 34 weeks of paid maternity leave, allowing mothers to spend significant time with their newborns while receiving financial support.
Croatia
In Croatia, mothers receive 30 weeks of paid maternity leave. This policy is part of the country's broader efforts to support families and encourage higher birth rates.
Czech Republic
The Czech Republic offers 28 weeks of paid maternity leave, ensuring that mothers have adequate time to recover and bond with their babies.
India
India offers 26 weeks of paid maternity leave, allowing mothers to take a significant amount of time off work to care for their newborns.
Ireland
Ireland also provides 26 weeks of paid maternity leave, reflecting its commitment to supporting new mothers and promoting family welfare.
Venezuela
Venezuela provides 26 weeks of paid maternity leave, which is part of its progressive family policies.
Iran
Iran wraps up the top ten with 26 weeks of paid maternity leave. This policy helps ensure that mothers can focus on their families during the critical early months of their child's life.