The Ministry of Labor, Social Protection and Family suggests introducing the notion of paternal leave in the Labor Code. This leave will be offered to both of the parents simultaneously during the first two months of the birth of the child, for a period of 28 calendar days, IPN reports.

During the given leave, the salary earner will receive a paternal allowance that will not be lower than the average monthly salary. The allowance will be paid from the salary fund of the unit where the employee works. The employers will be obliged to encourage the salary earners to take paternal leave. Those who will create impediments will be penalized.

Director of the “Child, Community, Family” Association in Moldova Liliana Rotaru has told IPN that such a bill is welcome as it will help the whole family. “During the first months after giving birth, the mothers need support, both physical and emotional. Many of the women experience post-natal depression. Thus, the husband will be able to be near to help his wife. It is very important for the father to be near the mother and the baby as they share the responsibilities for looking after the child,” she stated.

In Sweden, the legislation obliges the fathers to take paternal leave so as to lay solid basis for the family and prevent possible crises.