The evolution of paternity and maternity leave in Spain
THE MAIL
The future law on family diversity prepared by the Ministry of Social Rights together with the Ministry of Equality will add eight weeks to the paternity and maternity leaves of the 16 currently contemplated by the law. How has paternity and maternity leave evolved throughout history?
Evolution of paternity and maternity leave
- 1900: The Government establishes the first aid to women who give birth: three weeks off from work.
- 1931: The 2nd Republic approves the Compulsory Maternity Insurance that granted help and sick leave to mothers for 12 weeks.
- 1936-1975: The Civil War and Franco's dictatorship caused a delay for mothers who gave birth. Birth aid was distributed, such as that for a large family whose origin lies at this time, and the work activity of women was limited.
- Early 70's: Despite the dictatorship, women settle in the world of work. The Francoist government allows mothers to take leave for 1 and 3 years.
- 1980: Democracy brings with it paternity leave. Two days off for the fathers and 14 for the mother.
- 1989: Permits are extended. Four days off for parents and maternity leave is extended to 16 weeks, the first six being compulsory.
- 2007: Paternity leave is extended to 15 days.
- 2017: Paternity leave is extended from 15 to 28 days.
- 2018: Paternity leave goes from 28 to 32 days.
- 2019: Parents will have five to eight weeks.
- 2020: Parents may request a twelve-week leave.
- 2022: The new law would establish maternity and paternity leaves of 24 weeks, that is, six months.
Francisco Franco Bahamonde, Spain, Paternity, MaternityTrends
