The number of fathers who have taken parental leave has doubled over the past decade, emerges from figures requested by Peter Van Rompuy, the leader of the CD&V in the Flemish parliament, from the Federal Minister for Labour, Pierre-Yves Dermagne (PS).
In 2022, 30,402 fathers made use of the system in Belgium. In 2013, there were only 14,849.
Unsurprisingly, women (65%) still outnumber men (35%) in opting for parental leave. However, the 45% increase seen among mothers is less pronounced than among fathers.
“The race to catch up seems to have begun. It is to be hoped that this trend will continue in the years to come, so that eventually as many fathers as mothers will opt for this type of leave,” concluded Peter Van Rompuy.
Related News
- Paternity leave extension to improve gender equality falling short in Belgium
- A man's place is at work: 20-day paternity leave reinforces parenthood norms
In January, paternity leave increased to 20 days in Belgium. The Family League (La Ligue des Familles) is petitioning the government to increase to as much as 15 weeks in 2029, the same amount currently enjoyed by women.
