The Forum of Women of the European Union has expressed strong opposition to the recent proposal to reduce maternity leave from 12 months to 10 months. This decision comes after significant public backlash and numerous concerns raised about the importance of maternity rights. The forum emphasized that the rights of women and mothers should not be a testing ground for flawed policies.
In a statement, the forum highlighted the legitimate worries that arose among mothers and families regarding the original proposal. They stated, “Maternity leave represents one of the fundamental rights and an essential aspect of family support. Only when women, civil society, and the public mobilized did it become clear what should have been evident from the beginning: maternity leave is not a luxury but a basic right.”
The public reaction underscored the vital role that maternity leave plays in family welfare. The forum called for open communication and a responsible approach to policies affecting mothers and children. They stressed the need for future discussions on such matters to occur through extensive consultations, taking into account both expert and public opinions.
Additionally, the statement reinforced that the rights of women and mothers are not a space for testing inadequate policies. It asserted, “We will not allow such proposals to resurface ‘under the radar.’ Any potential changes must be carefully analyzed and based on the best interests of families.”
In the wake of this controversy, the Forum of Women of the European Union aims to ensure that dialogues surrounding maternity leave and related policies are inclusive and transparent. They advocate for a collaborative approach that prioritizes the needs and rights of families, ensuring that any legislative changes reflect the collective voice of the community.
