Spain to Offer 17 Weeks of Parental Leave to Both Mothers and Fathers
Spain has made a significant announcement regarding parental leave, setting a new standard in the European Union. The country is extending its parental leave policy to 17 weeks, providing equal and fully-paid leave to both mothers and fathers. This move is a significant step towards promoting gender equality and supporting new parents.
Currently, Spain offers 12 weeks of fully-paid parental leave to both mothers and fathers, which is already one of the most generous policies in the EU. However, the additional five weeks of leave will give new parents more time to bond with their child, care for their family, and adjust to their new roles.
The news was announced by the Spanish government on July 29, 2025, and is a significant step towards achieving gender equality. According to a minister, “Spain is moving towards feminism…and there’d be no turning back.” This move is a testament to the country’s commitment to promoting gender equality and supporting working families.
Spain and Finland are the only two EU countries that offer equal, fully-paid birth leave to both parents. This policy is a significant departure from the traditional approach, where mothers were often expected to take time off to care for their newborns, while fathers were expected to continue working.
The additional five weeks of leave will provide new parents with more time to care for their child, and will also help to reduce the gender pay gap. The current gender pay gap in Spain is around 12%, which is higher than the EU average. By providing equal parental leave to both parents, Spain is taking a significant step towards promoting gender equality and reducing the pay gap.
The policy change is also expected to have a positive impact on the economy. By providing more time off for new parents, Spain is encouraging parents to take an active role in caring for their children, which can lead to increased productivity and reduced turnover rates.
The announcement has been welcomed by parents and advocacy groups, who have been pushing for this change for years. “This is a game-changer for parents and families in Spain,” said a spokesperson for the advocacy group, “Families are the backbone of society, and this policy change will give them the support they need to thrive.”
The new policy is expected to come into effect in 2026, and will apply to parents who give birth to a child or adopt a child after that date. Parents will be able to take the leave at any point during the first 12 months after the child’s birth or adoption.
In conclusion, Spain’s decision to offer 17 weeks of parental leave to both mothers and fathers is a significant step towards promoting gender equality and supporting working families. This policy change is a testament to the country’s commitment to promoting gender equality and reducing the gender pay gap. As the only two EU countries that offer equal, fully-paid birth leave to both parents, Spain and Finland are setting a new standard for the rest of the EU.
