Brussels proposes uniform parental leave across Europe

The Brussels parliament has voted for a proposal to reopen the European debate on parental leave, writes Bruzz. Fathers across Europe should be entitled to two weeks paid parental leave, says Brussels MP Brigitte Grouwels.

Grouwels wants to put parental leave back on the European agenda because she finds it unjust that there are such stark differences between the various member states. Fathers in some Eastern European countries, for example, must return to work just one day after the birth of their child, while Scandinavian men are often encouraged to stay at home with their children for as long as possible. The duration and conditions of maternity and paternity leave across the EU vary too widely, according to Grouwels.

To put increased pressure on Europe to make a priority of equalising parental leave, the Brussels parliament submitted a proposal, which was approved by 13 votes for, and only one against.

The Brussels parliament thereby promises to urge the federal government to advocate at European level for new legislation.