Mexico and Chile review labor reforms for paternity leave and childcare

Legislative bodies in Mexico and Chile are reviewing proposals aimed at enhancing labor rights and family support.

In Mexico, the Commission of Governance and Constitutional Points is analyzing reforms to the Federal Labor Law and Social Security Law. The proposal seeks to expand paternity leave from five days to twelve weeks with full pay. It also includes provisions for flexible leave within twelve months of birth, six weeks of paid leave for adoption, and the ability for a parent to access postpartum rest periods if the mother passes away during or shortly after childbirth.

In Chile, the Chamber of Deputies is holding hearings regarding a project to establish universal childcare rights. The initiative aims to extend childcare access to dependent and independent workers, removing the current requirement for companies to employ at least 20 women to provide the service. A solidarity fund would be created to finance the system, though discussions continue regarding the impact of using unemployment insurance contributions to fund it, with experts noting potential long-term effects on pension fund growth.