It takes TWO to tango... TWO to make a child. Childcare is the responsibility of BOTH PARENTS!  

Let us give Fathers at least 2 WEEKS PATERNITY LEAVE (i) to take care of and bond with their newborn baby, and (ii) to support new mothers.  

Addressing Gender Inequality issues MUST NOT be one-sided and only benefit women. Gender stereotypes and policies that discriminate against men MUST ALSO be redressed. TO DATE, according to the Mauritius Workers’ Rights Act 2019 Sections (52) & (53): female workers are entitled 14 weeks of Maternity Leave, whilst MEN can ONLY enjoy 5 DAYS of Paternity Leave! UNFAIR and DOUBLE-STANDARD!

Benefits of EXTENDED PATERNITY LEAVE:

• The more the Paternity Leave, the more it is recognised that Fathers play a pivotal role in the life of their new babies and newly mothers!
• More Paternity Leave in fact means more Gender Equality. 
• Paternity Leave gives fathers the opportunity to be a primary caregiver and experience the unique challenges that come with it. 
• Raising a newborn can be a stressful and complex experience for new mothers. Women may feel isolated and under much pressure.
• More Paternity Leave helps to break gender stereotypes/norms/roles that overburden mothers with childcare and domestic responsibilties.
• More engaged and involved fathers benefit women’s empowerment. They support working mothers who also contribute to the economy and household finances.  
• More Paternity Leave reduces gender discrimination in the labor market and can address gender pay gaps! 

If you agree that the Parternity Leave in Mauritius must be addressed and extended to 15 days instead of 5, please, kindly sign this petition. Thank you!

Much Love, 

Trisha

p.s: India currently has a 15-day paid Paternity Leave Policy!