the length of paternity leave extended to 28 days

The duration of paternity leave could double from July 2021. Emmanuel Macron is expected to announce it this Wednesday, September 23.

This is a victory for dads … and moms. The government has reportedly decided to extend the length of paternity leave to 28 days: 6 days of birth leave (paid for by the employer) + 22 days of paternity leave. Until now, this leave was only 14 days: 3 days of birth leave +11 days. 18 days in case of multiple births.

This new right could come into force in July 2021. Emmanuel Macron is expected to make the announcement on Wednesday, September 23. The president is expected at Maternal and Child Protection (PMI) in Longjumeau, in Essonne.

By doubling the length of paternity leave, the government wants in particular to encourage young dads to take it. Indeed, since its creation in 2002, only two thirds of fathers exercise this right. Moreover, part of this paternity leave would be compulsory … and companies failing to comply with this obligation would be liable to a fine of 7,500 euros and damages (as for maternity leave). This will establish more equality between men and women, and prevent young dads from being penalized if they benefit.

This proposal was discussed at length last week, between the social partners, the Minister of Labor, Elisabeth Borne, and the Secretary of State for Children and Families, Adrien Taquet.

A report called for nine weeks

In a report on the “first 1000 days of the child” released on September 10, the Cyrulnik commission called for 9 weeks of paternity leave. This leave could have been taken in two stages: part after birth and part at the end of maternal leave. According to them, it is a way to fight against maternal isolation and postpartum depression.

Paternity leave is also essential for the father. It allows her to bond with her baby from the first days of life, and to find her place more easily with the newborn and her mother. It is especially during this period that you learn the right gestures and experience unique moments with your child.

The lengthening of its duration is therefore good news for fathers and mothers.

What compensation?

The daily allowances for paternity leave are calculated on the basis of the last three gross salaries received by the father. Depending on the amount of the salary, daily allowances can be a minimum of 9.63 euros per day and up to 89.03 euros. Note that the amount of the salary must not exceed the monthly social security ceiling, which is 3428 gross euros per month.

To be compensated, paternity leave must be taken within four months of the birth of the child.

The 11 questions to be on top of paternity leave

Video by Shawna Montout