Parents should get 6 months paid leave each

The Problem

In many countries, mothers are forced to choose between career and family while fathers get little or no leave. This perpetuates gender inequality at home and in the workplace. The "motherhood penalty" in career progression persists because only mothers take leave.

The Standard

Each parent should receive at least 6 months of paid parental leave per child, with a portion reserved exclusively for each parent (non-transferable). This normalizes fathers taking leave and sharing caregiving equally.

Where It Exists

Sweden offers 480 days total with 90 days reserved for each parent. 90% of Swedish fathers now take parental leave, averaging 30% of total days. The non-transferable quota is the key mechanism that actually changes behavior.