Becoming a parent is a life-changing experience that brings immense joy and a deep sense of responsibility. The early years of a child’s life are crucial for their emotional, cognitive, and social development, and the presence of both parents during this time can have a profound impact. Children who receive care and attention from both their mother and father tend to develop stronger emotional security, better social skills, and a greater capacity for learning.
Children with engaged fathers often exhibit better cognitive development and emotional resilience. Additionally, countries with strong parental leave policies that ensure equal time for both parents have seen increased paternal involvement and reduced gender disparities in the workplace.
The Case of Portugal and the Debate on Parental Leave
Portugal has made notable progress in offering parental leave to both parents, yet the system still leans towards longer leave for mothers. Recently, a statement by the Minister of Labour and Social Security sparked debate when she suggested that increasing parental leave could lead to greater inequalities in the workplace. While the concern is understandable—longer parental leave for one gender can reinforce biases in hiring and promotion—there is a simple and fair solution: equal parental leave for both mothers and fathers. By ensuring that both parents have the same amount of leave, we can foster a culture where caregiving is a shared responsibility rather than an expectation placed primarily on women.
Countries that have successfully implemented equal parental leave policies have seen greater gender equality in both the workplace and the household. Some companies have also pioneered inclusive parental leave policies, demonstrating that business success and employee well-being can go hand in hand.
This approach would help eliminate workplace discrimination against women, who are often seen as a “risk” for employers due to the potential for extended maternity leave. If both genders had equal leave, companies would assess candidates based on their skills and contributions rather than on assumptions about childcare responsibilities.
My Personal Experience as a New Father
As a recent father, I have experienced firsthand the invaluable nature of being present in my child’s early life. The first months are filled with milestones, from the first smiles to the first attempts at communication. Being actively involved during this time has strengthened my bond with my child and given my partner and me a more balanced distribution of responsibilities. My wife cannot imagine going through this period with only a month of my presence. While biologically we, as fathers, cannot fulfill the same role as mothers in certain aspects, our presence and support are just as vital in providing care, security, and affection to our child.
The societal expectation that fathers should return to work shortly after the birth of their child limits their ability to contribute equally to childcare. This not only affects the child’s emotional development but also creates an unfair dynamic in which mothers are expected to take on the majority of caregiving duties, often at the expense of their careers and well-being. In contrast, countries that implement equal parental leave policies have seen increased paternal involvement in child-rearing, benefiting both parents and children.
A Word of Appreciation for Ferring Pharmaceuticals
I am incredibly grateful to my employer, Ferring Pharmaceuticals, for recognizing the importance of family and work-life balance. The company’s policy of offering six months of paternity leave is a testament to its commitment to employee well-being and gender equality. This extended leave has allowed me to be fully present for my child while also providing support to my partner during this transformative period.
While Ferring Pharmaceuticals’ policy is exemplary, other companies have yet to catch up. Many businesses still offer minimal paternity leave, reinforcing the imbalance between professional and family responsibilities. Some companies that provide generous parental leave to both mothers and fathers have seen increased employee retention and job satisfaction.
Encouraging Reflection and Change
The discussion around parental leave is not just about time off from work—it is about shaping a culture that values family, gender equality, and child development. Governments, businesses, and individuals all have a role to play in fostering policies that support both parents in their caregiving roles.
As we move forward, we should strive to create an environment where fathers are as encouraged and supported in their parental roles as mothers. Equal parental leave is not just beneficial for families; it is a necessary step toward a fairer, more balanced society. It is time we recognize that parenting is not a privilege—it is a fundamental responsibility and an opportunity for both parents to contribute equally to their child’s future.
