Latvia's Working Mothers Face Uphill Battle Post-Maternity Leave
A concerning trend has emerged in Latvia, with 32% of women surveyed not returning to their workplace after childcare leave. This issue has drawn attention from various authorities, including the State Labor Inspectorate and the Office of the Ombudsman.
Last year, the State Labor Inspectorate provided 497 consultations and issued one administrative penalty to protect new mothers' rights. However, the Inspectorate's powers are limited; they can investigate cases, issue warnings, fines, or orders, but cannot reinstate employees. Currently, 12,930 women are receiving maternity allowance, implying that 4,137 may not return to work and 414 may be forced to sign termination agreements.
Returning to work after childcare leave can be stressful, leading some women to avoid it. Some may lose their jobs due to workplace or company liquidation during their leave. Women's incomes tend to fall after having a child, while men's incomes increase in Latvia. The Office of the Ombudsman, Latvian Radio, and the State Labor Inspectorate can assist women in such situations. However, there is no specific information available about an organization collecting data on securing the rights of parents of young children, nor data on the number of women unable to contest a dismissal in Latvia.
Women face significant challenges in returning to work after childcare leave in Latvia. With only two realistic options - to sue or settle with the former employer - and every tenth woman admitting to being forced to sign a termination agreement, there is a clear need for stronger protections and support for working mothers.
