A proposal has emerged in the Lithuanian Parliament (Seimas) to allow parents to take parental leave until the child reaches eight years of age. Employers have expressed concern about potential disruptions to business operations.
What Is Being Proposed?
Under current regulations, parental leave can be used until the child turns 3. The new proposal would allow parents to split the leave and use it until the child is 8 years old, providing greater flexibility in balancing work and family life.
Employers’ Position
Employer organizations argue that such a change would create organizational challenges: it becomes difficult to plan staffing needs when employees can take leave at any time over a long period. This is particularly challenging for smaller businesses.
Legal Perspectives
This issue reflects a broader trend — EU member states are seeking more flexible options for combining work and family life. Regardless of the final decision, employers should monitor these developments and prepare for potential Labour Code amendments in advance.
Source: LRT.lt
