This issue of the Conditions of Work Digest presents the measures taken to protect working women in connection with pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding, and to ensure that childbearing does not deny them equal opportunities and equal treatment in employment. The Digest is divided into four parts.

Part I discusses the main features of statutory maternity protection schemes, the various issues that they raise, and new trends in the approach to maternity protection.

Part II contains fact sheets that list the principal legislative measures adopted on maternity protection in 145 countries. The fact sheets are divided into four sections. The first section contains a summary of provisions on maternity and related types of leave, including paternity, adoption and parental leave. It indicates which workers are covered, and the nature and extent of such leave periods. The second section presents the cash benefits available during the various types of leave and the source of funding. The third section presents health protection measures. These are divided into two main groups. As regards the arrangement of working time, information is provided on the prohibition of night work or overtime work, on time off for medical examinations or other needs related to pregnancy, and on nursing breaks. Work that is dangerous or unhealthy for pregnant women and nursing mothers is examined next, together with the possibility for women to be transferred to suitable work. The fourth and last section deals with provisions aimed at protecting women against discrimination on grounds of maternity, and reviews the provisions that protect their employment relationship.

Part III assesses the role of the collective bargaining process in relation to statutory measures.

Part IV contains a review of the action taken by the ILO and other international or intergovernmental organizations to promote maternity protection.

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