Fighting discrimination on the grounds of pregnancy, maternity and parenthood : the application of EU and national law in practice in 33 European countries

This report of the European Network of Legal Experts in the Field of Gender Equality details the implementation, and challenges therein, of the pregnancy, parental leave, and other equality and employment-related directives in 33 countries: all 27 EU Member States, Croatia (approaching accession on 1 July 2013), the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Turkey, and the EEA countries. Each national report focuses its findings around four subheadings: existing legislation and case law, gaps in national law, involvement of other parties, and enforcement and effectiveness. In addition, emerging issues such as the so-called 'white' or 'blank' resignations and entitlement to breastfeeding breaks are highlighted. Three comparative tables addressing the latter issue alongside the levels of payment for pregnancy-related leave, and entitlement to maternity, paternity and parental leave are included in the final annex.