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In a significant step toward promoting the rights of working women and the well-being of children, the Senate of the Republic has approved a momentous reform to the Federal Labor Law. With overwhelming support of 81 votes in favor, this reform seeks to ensure and strengthen the right to breastfeeding in the workplace, marking a milestone in the protection of motherhood and the upbringing of newborns.
Extension of the breastfeeding period in the Federal Labor Law
The reform in question extends the breastfeeding period from six months to two years, a change that reflects a strong commitment to the well-being of working mothers and their children. This amendment has multiple objectives, from guaranteeing the human right to motherhood in the workplace to preventing unfair dismissals of working mothers and strengthening rights related to infant nutrition and feeding.
Among the highlights of this reform is the regulation of parental rights for both women and men. This recognizes the shared importance of caring for and raising newborns, redefining traditional roles and promoting a more equitable distribution of parental responsibilities.
One of the most notable innovations is the ability for mothers to request flexible work hours during the breastfeeding period. This is a major step toward creating a more inclusive and supportive work environment that considers the needs of both mothers and their babies.
The first weeks of breastfeeding
Employers also have a fundamental role to play in this reform. They are required to guarantee decent, private, hygienic, and accessible spaces for breastfeeding in the workplace. This provision underscores the importance of creating a supportive environment for breastfeeding mothers and highlights the value of their contribution in the workplace.
The reform emphasizes the importance of strengthening family ties and early coexistence between parents and children. Both parents are called to take an active role in their children's emotional development and well-being from an early age, promoting the creation of a more equitable society in which both motherhood and fatherhood can be fully realized.
This change also has a direct impact on protecting working mothers from adverse behavior, such as the dismissal of nursing mothers. This initiative is an essential step toward eradicating gender discrimination in the workplace and providing greater security for working women.
Lawmakers recognize that promoting breastfeeding in the workplace can have a positive impact on efficiency and productivity. It will also reduce absenteeism, as breastfed babies tend to get sick less, benefiting both mothers and employers.
In summary, the approval of this reform to the Federal Labor Law marks an important milestone in promoting the rights of working women and child well-being. Breastfeeding is recognized as a fundamental human right and a crucial activity for the healthy growth and development of newborns. This reform not only supports working mothers but also lays the foundation for a more equitable and supportive society in which all family members can thrive.