These are the laws for maternity + paternity leave around the world

The conversation in the workplace around maternity and paternity leave policies is a big one—and that dialogue isn’t stopping anytime soon. It’s no secret that the United States is behind when it comes to post-baby leave practices. In fact, it’s one of the only developed countries that doesn’t require workplaces to mandate a maternity and paternity leave policy.

But that doesn’t mean you can’t get some inspiration from other countries and encourage change in your workplace. (Or for your own employees, you mom bosses.)

CapRelo curated an interactive map that shows you exactly what parental leave laws are around the world, including the amount of time off and what is paid.

Here is a glimpse at five of the top parental leave policies from around the world:

Sweden

Maternity leave: 480 days, 80% paid


Paternity leave: 480 days, 80% paid


Bonus: Applies to adoptions and can be used until child turns 8

Bulgaria

Maternity leave: 58 weeks, 90% paid


Paternity leave: 15 days, 90% paid


Australia

Maternity leave: 52 weeks, 18 weeks paid at minimum wage


Paternity leave: 14 days, all paid at minimum wage


Bonus: Partners can swap their leave to one another if unused


United Kingdom

Maternity leave: up to 52 weeks, 90% paid up to 39 weeks

Paternity leave: 1 or 2 weeks, flat rate benefit or 90% paid, whichever is less


Bonus: Mamas are required to take at least 2 weeks; 4 weeks if working in factory

India

Maternity leave: 26 weeks, 100% paid (at companies 10+ employees)


Paternity leave: 0 days


While the maternity leave policies are definitely great for women, we still have a ways to go globally for fathers. And the United States definitely needs to get on board to help families during such an important time in their life, whether that’s through a natural birth, fostering or adoption—without having to take a tremendous financial cut or unpaid time off. Mamas can also benefit from more guidance and support when they do decide to transition back into the workplace.

So, in 2018, we’re hoping that more advancements are made with parental leave.

Let’s leave behind the stigma that a woman’s career is over after kids.

Let’s leave behind the idea that men don’t need time to bond with baby.

Let’s leave behind the thought that women don’t need a little extra time when battling postpartum depression or anxiety.

Let’s leave behind the assumption that motherhood only counts when it involves a physical birth.

Together, mamas (and dads), we can start the conversation in our communities and workplaces and make a change.