The Best Maternity Pay in the World

23 Sept

And Where the UK Stands

Maternity leave policies shape how parents experience one of the most important transitions in life. Some countries offer generous time off with strong pay; others leave parents financially stretched and emotionally strained. Here’s what the global picture looks like - and why support during this period matters just as much as the policy itself.

Global Leaders

When it comes to time off, a few countries stand out:

Romania — 104 weeks
South Korea — 91 weeks
Poland — 61 weeks
Bulgaria — 59 weeks
Sweden — 56 weeks

And when it comes to pay, especially adjusted for cost of living, the top performers are:

Norway
Romania
South Korea
Finland
Sweden

These countries combine length and financial support, giving parents the breathing space they need in those early years.

The UK Reality

On paper, the UK looks generous: up to 52 weeks of maternity leave. But here’s how the pay works:

First 6 weeks - 90% of your earnings
Next 33 weeks - a flat statutory rate (often far below most salaries)
Final 13 weeks - unpaid

The gap: Parents have the right to time, but many can’t afford to take it. After the first six weeks, financial pressure forces difficult decisions.

Why This Matters

Parental leave isn’t just about dates and paychecks. It’s about navigating:

Financial stress when pay drops
Identity shifts from professional to parent
Anxiety around when and how to return to work
Unequal workplace support, depending on your employer

Even in countries with stronger systems than the UK, these challenges remain.

Where Moco Helps

This is where Moco steps in - bridging the gap between policy on paper and real life experience.

We support parents to:

Build confidence through identity changes
Plan practical, sustainable return-to-work strategies
Balance family and career without burning out

We work with organisations to:

Retain top talent
Create inclusive cultures for working parents
Support wellbeing across the whole transition

Government provides time. Employers provide structure. Moco provides clarity, resilience and strategy.

Final Thought

The UK offers time, but not enough financial support. Scandinavia offers both. But everywhere, parents need guidance through the emotional, practical and professional changes that come with maternity leave.

That’s why Moco exists: to help parents not just survive this period - but truly thrive during it and beyond.

Chloe Mouser