un acquis important dans le renforcement de la protection sociale de la femme travailleuse
Summary of Maternity Leave Extension in Algeria
On Monday, during a speech in Algiers, Fayçal Bentaleb, the Minister of Labor, Employment, and Social Security, emphasized the significance of extending maternity leave as a vital advancement in enhancing the social protection of working women. This statement followed the adoption of a legislative bill by the National People’s Assembly (APN), which allows for an extension of maternity leave under social insurance provisions.
Bentaleb highlighted that this legislative amendment signals a strong political commitment to continue advancing social reforms. He noted that the adoption represents the legislative body’s dedication to supporting working women and fulfilling the commitments of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, which aim to assist women in balancing family and professional responsibilities. This initiative is part of a broader vision for a fair and humane social system.
The Minister outlined the intention of his department to establish a modern, integrated social security system as part of building a new Algeria that is robust through its workforce and institutions. The APN’s Commission on Health, Social Affairs, Labor, and Vocational Training acknowledged this legislative change in a supplementary report, praising the new benefits for working women, which will aid in their family management, especially for mothers of newborns requiring ongoing medical care.
The amended law extends maternity leave for working women to five complete months, providing daily wage compensation for 150 days, a significant increase from the previous 98 days specified in existing law. Additionally, the law introduces provisions for mothers giving birth to children with disabilities or serious illnesses, permitting the extension of maternity leave by up to 50 extra days, potentially increasing total leave to 165 days, contingent upon a medical submission to the social security services.
This legislative progress highlights Algeria’s commitment to enhancing the rights and well-being of working mothers, reinforcing the social safety net, and responding to contemporary familial needs.
