For many parents, paid leave and work-family support after childbirth or adoption greatly affect their families’ health and financial wellbeing. Over the years, governments have instituted parental leave policies to promote gender equality in the workplace, increase birth rates and encourage the long-term social benefits of parent-child bonding. Yet, the level of support depends greatly on where you live.

Mercer’s 2012 Worldwide Benefit & Employment Guidelines outlines parental leave policies around the world, which are continually evolving to keep pace with changing social and economic needs – for example, flexible leave that gives fathers the option to stay home with their newborns instead of or in addition to mothers.

“Employers need to ensure that their parental leave policies comply with local laws and allow for adequate staff coverage,” says Robyn Cameron, Global Leader of Mercer’s International consulting group. “And with Generation Y and Millennial workers placing more value on work-life balance and flexibility than previous generations, organizations that offer competitive leave benefits – for both men and women – have a better chance at attracting and retaining the best talent.”

See how parental leave policies vary around the world.

(Click image to enlarge)

For more information about this survey, visit www.imercer.com/wbeg.