The measures are part of an opinion drafted by the Ordem dos Psicólogos regarding proposed changes to the Government’s draft Labor Law, highlighting five areas with “concrete proposals based on scientific evidence.”
In a statement, the Ordem dos Psicólogos (OPP) argues that “some proposals represent a setback compared to the current legislation and do not take into account the available scientific evidence or international recommendations.”
Concerning gestational bereavement, for which the current government proposes ending the three days of justified absence provided for in the Labor Code, the Ordem proposes not only maintaining the possibility of absence but extending it up to 20 days, “equating it to mourning for the death of a child already born.”
“The Government’s proposal undervalues the psychological impact of loss and exacerbates gender inequalities. Treating gestational loss as less significant contradicts the exposed evidence: its emotional and functional impact can be at least comparable to losing a child already born,” asserts the OPP.
Regarding parental leave, and similar to a citizen proposal already submitted to the Assembly of the Republic, it recommends the universal extension to six months paid at 100%, without conditions.
The Ordem dos Psicólogos also considers the Government’s proposal regarding breastfeeding or nursing leave as “inappropriate and contrary to scientific evidence and the recommendations of WHO and UNICEF,” advocating to maintain the current legislation, which requires a medical certificate only after the child reaches 12 months of age.
On flexible working hours for employees with family responsibilities, it warns against the limitations the Government intends to impose, which could compromise the balance between professional and family life, increase psychosocial risks, and disproportionately affect women.
On this matter, it supports retaining the current wording of the Labor Code, which ensures flexibility for children up to 12 years old or with a disability/chronic illness.
“The OPP appeals for labor reform to be centered on promoting the healthy development of children, gender equality, and family well-being,” states the organization.
It also advocates for parents to enjoy reduced working hours until the child reaches 5 years old, partial and flexible parental leaves, tax incentives for companies promoting balance, and public literacy campaigns on parenting and mental health.
“The OPP reaffirms that legislating on work is legislating on health, human development, and social justice. The draft, in its current form, risks these pillars,” it adds.
The opinion, a 31-page document, was submitted to the Government on Tuesday.
