Member States are failing women throughout Europe.

While it may have been on the cards for some time, the actual official announcement on 1 July by Commission Vice-President Timmermans to withdraw the Maternity Leave Directive is one more sign that the European Union (EU) and its Member States are failing women in Europe.

The aim of the draft directive was to strengthen women’s rights by ensuring 20 weeks of fully paid maternity leave across the European Union, and make sure women are protected upon their return to work.