Japan approves flexible paternity leave

Japan’s lawmakers have enacted a law awarding fathers more flexibility when taking paternity leave after childbirth, which is expected to be launched in October next year, according to Japan Times. 

Under the revised law, fathers will be able to take a total of four weeks off within eight weeks of their child’s birth. They will also be given the freedom to split the period into two breaks. 

It will also allow workers to give a shorter prior notice to their employers of their intention to take paternity leave, from four weeks to two weeks.  Up to 80% of their pay will be guaranteed through the new leave plan.

READ: Japan government revises paternity leave to promote time off

In fiscal year 2019, only 7.48% of men working in the private sector took childcare leave, according to the Health, Labour and Welfare Ministry, which aims to increase the proportion of men taking paternity leave to 30% in 2025. 

Companies will also be obliged to inform employees of their childcare leave and confirm their intention to utilise the leave from April next year.