What's happened
On June 12, 2025, hundreds of fathers protested in London and Edinburgh, calling for improved paternity leave in the UK. The current system offers only two weeks of leave, one of the shortest in Europe. Labour MP Luke Charters plans to take extended leave, highlighting the need for change in parental leave policies.
What's behind the headline?
Current Landscape
- The UK’s paternity leave system is among the worst in Europe, with only two weeks of leave.
- Recent protests, termed the 'dad strike', have highlighted the demand for at least six weeks of paid leave.
Political Momentum
- Labour MP Luke Charters is set to become the first male MP to take extended paternity leave, setting a precedent.
- The cross-party women and equalities committee has called for reforms, indicating growing political support for change.
Societal Impact
- Improved paternity leave is linked to better gender equality and reduced domestic violence, as fathers become more involved in caregiving.
- The push for better leave reflects changing societal norms around fatherhood and parenting roles, emphasizing the importance of fathers in early childhood development.
What the papers say
The Guardian's Alexandra Topping reported on Labour MP Luke Charters' decision to take extended paternity leave, emphasizing the need for societal change in perceptions of parental leave. Meanwhile, Matthew Weaver highlighted the protests in London and Edinburgh, where fathers rallied for better leave, showcasing the grassroots demand for reform. The Scotsman provided context on the historical underfunding of paternity leave in the UK, noting that the current two-week provision is insufficient compared to other European nations. These sources collectively illustrate a growing movement advocating for fathers' rights and better family support policies.
How we got here
The UK has one of the lowest paternity leave provisions in Europe, with only two weeks at £184.03 per week. Recent advocacy from MPs and campaign groups has intensified, aiming to reform parental leave to promote gender equality and support family dynamics.
Go deeper
- What changes are being proposed for paternity leave?
- How does the UK compare to other countries on parental leave?
- What impact could better paternity leave have on families?
Common question
-
Why Are Fathers Protesting for Better Paternity Leave in the UK?
On June 12, 2025, fathers across the UK took to the streets to demand better paternity leave policies. With the current provision being just two weeks, many are questioning why this is insufficient and what changes are being proposed. This page explores the current state of paternity leave in the UK, comparisons with other European countries, and the voices advocating for reform.
More on these topics