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Labour Market Effects of Parental Leave: A European Perspective

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  • Y.E. Akgündüz
  • J. Plantenga

Abstract

We investigate the aggregate-level effects of parental leave legislation on various labour market outcomes of women in 16 European countries for the period since 1970. The paper updates and extends previous findings in the literature. Results show increases in participation rates that diminish with length and generosity of leave schemes. While pure participation numbers may not increase as dramatically as hoped, there is strong evidence of increases in weekly working hours. On the flipside, decreases in wages for high-skilled workers and amplified occupational segregation are likely results of generous leave schemes. We conclude with a discussion of recent debates over extending minimum maternity and parental leave rights on the European level.

Suggested Citation

  • Y.E. Akgündüz & J. Plantenga, 2011. "Labour Market Effects of Parental Leave: A European Perspective," Working Papers 11-09, Utrecht School of Economics.
    • Handle: RePEc:use:tkiwps:1109
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    File URL: https://dspace.library.uu.nl/bitstream/handle/1874/218756/11-09.pdf
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Nabanita Datta Gupta & Nina Smith & Mette Verner, 2008. "PERSPECTIVE ARTICLE: The impact of Nordic countries’ family friendly policies on employment, wages, and children," Review of Economics of the Household, Springer, vol. 6(1), pages 65-89, March.
    2. Jane Waldfogel, 1998. "Understanding the "Family Gap" in Pay for Women with Children," Journal of Economic Perspectives, American Economic Association, vol. 12(1), pages 137-156, Winter.
    3. Jérôme De Henau & Danièle Meulders & Sile Padraigin O'Dorchai, 2007. "Parents' care and career: comparing parental leave policies," ULB Institutional Repository 2013/9277, ULB -- Universite Libre de Bruxelles.
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    Cited by:

    1. Janneke Plantenga, 2014. "Searching for Welfare, Work and Gender Equality. WWWforEurope Working Paper No. 59," WIFO Studies, WIFO, number 47212.

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    Keywords

    Parental leave; gender gap; labour force participation; wages;
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