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The countries were ranked according to five indicators:
- maternal health
- children's well-being
- educational
- economic
- political status
Based on the report, it is apparent that the Nordic countries are succeeding in providing the best conditions for mothers and their children. Meanwhile, the poorest and most conflict-infested nations at the bottom of the list show figures that are grim and heartbreaking.
Among the reasons why Denmark has been consistently on top of the list are the country's policies on gender equality, safe environment, the accessibility of essential obstetric care, effective contraceptive practices and an excellent maternity leave scheme - 52 weeks of maternity leave with benefits and up to 14 weeks after the baby is born; fathers are also entitled to a 2 week leave within the first 14 weeks that the baby is born. Denmark has it good; perhaps that is why the Danes were deemed the happiest people in the world.
As a woman looking into becoming a mother in the future, it is comforting to know that living in Denmark means I am guaranteed outstanding maternal benefits and the best possible care for me and my children. However, as a person coming from a country belonging to the lower half of the list, it's disturbing to think that while superior maternal conditions are accessible to some, there are still a lot of countries where even the most basic needs of children and mothers are not being met. This stark constant can be significantly reduced if life-saving measures such as: female education, family planning and skilled birth attendants can be made available to the countries where help is needed the most.
Read the report and learn how you can take action.
To learn more about maternal leave and benefits in Denmark, click here.
