Swiss Government Evaluates Enhanced Parental Leave Impact

Federal Council analyzes economic and social implications of expanded parental leave policies amid growing public debate.

Switzerland currently provides 14 weeks maternity leave for working mothers and 2 weeks paid leave for the other parent
Variable parental leave model has less negative impact on incomes than parity model
Parity parental leave model shows more positive effects on mothers' workforce participation
Liberal Greens are launching an initiative for 18-week family leave

14 weeks

Current maternity leave duration

2 weeks

Current paternity leave duration

18 weeks

Proposed family leave duration

"A meaningful cost-benefit analysis is only possible once the objectives of parental leave have been clarified"
— Federal Council

"A pragmatic solution had to be found that was financially viable"
— Council of States Committee

Federal Council's Assessment

Switzerland currently provides 14 weeks maternity leave for working mothers and 2 weeks paid leave for the other parent
Variable parental leave model has less negative impact on incomes than parity model
Parity parental leave model shows more positive effects on mothers' workforce participation
Liberal Greens are launching an initiative for 18-week family leave