In the News

Fight for Paternity Leave

A Swiss coalition of trade unions, religious organisations and men's and father's groups have united to call for new legislation offering men 20 days' paternity leave. The Swiss Employers Association responded that such legislation would not work, raising labour costs and adversely affecting small and medium-sized businesses.

The government currently recommends new fathers be given up to two days' paid leave, but the situation differs in individual cantons and workplaces. Some do not allow men any time off.

The coalition says new fathers could take an initial five days off when the baby is born, and be flexible in staggering another 15 days leave over the next 12 months. Valérie Boroli Sandoz of Travail Suisse believes, "That would ensure the father's presence in the family in a regular manner. Five days is a bit short. Compared with other European countries, 20 days is not much.”