Adoption leave is not a statutory requirement in many countries and is sometimes covered under a more general parental leave policy. Entitlements vary and may be a defined number of days for both parents to share or each parent may receive eligibility for a separate set of days. Mercer has conducted extensive research on maternity, paternity, adoption and other family leave. The results are available in Mercer’s 2016 Global Parental Leave report.
As employers review their parental leave policies in an effort to better align organizational objectives with the needs of a changing workforce, many are offering time off to parents of adopted children. Adoption leave, similar to paternity leave, is becoming more prevalent, especially as the definition of families continues to progress to include same-sex parents.
According to Mercer’s 2016 Global Parental Leave report, more than one-quarter (29%) of companies worldwide provide adoption leave beyond what is required by law. Furthermore, when asked how they handle adoption leave for same-sex couples, 87% of companies indicate the leave is handled in the same manner as opposite-sex couples.
“Similar to paternity leave, some countries do not have a statutory requirement to provide leave for parents adopting a child,” said Ilya Bonic, Senior Partner and President of Mercer’s Talent business.
“Adoption leave, like other leaves, helps employers accommodate more diverse family structures, which are now commonplace among their employee population.”
Globally, just more than one-quarter (29%) of companies worldwide provide adoption leave above the statutory requirements; this practice is highest in the Americas and lowest in Asia Pacific.
A parental leave policy that either parent can use accommodates the more diverse family structures now found in many countries. Companies were asked how they handle adoption leave for same-sex couples and the majority (87%) indicated the leave is handled the same as for opposite-sex couples.
The top ten countries with the highest percentage of organizations providing adoption leave above the statutory requirement are indicated below. Several of these countries do not require companies to provide paid adoption leave, but many do so anyway. Therefore, any leave provided is considered above the statutory minimum.
As the definition and gender composition of families evolve over time, companies may choose to redefine their policies to ensure inclusivity. To attract and retain skilled global talent, and manage a diverse global workforce, organizations need accurate, up-to-date information on everything from salary trends to local statutory benefits.
Take a look at other Global Parental Leave report highlights.
Africa
