What is the minimum maternity leave mandated under EU law?

The minimum maternity leave mandated under EU law is indeed 14 weeks. This requirement is established in the EU Directive 92/85/EEC, which aims to promote improvements in the safety and health at work of pregnant workers and workers who have recently given birth or are breastfeeding. This directive sets forth standards for maternity leave to ensure that women have adequate time to recover from childbirth and bond with their newborns.

The legislation specifies that entitled employees should have at least 14 weeks of maternity leave, which typically can start before the expected date of delivery. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of mothers receiving adequate financial compensation during this leave period to support them and their families. This standard reflects the EU's commitment to supporting the health and welfare of mothers and their children.

Understanding the legal framework around maternity leave can help in recognizing the broader context of worker rights within the EU, emphasizing the importance of protecting health and safety during critical life events such as childbirth.