Senegal's new labor code extends maternity leave to 18 weeks
Senegal's new Labor Code, examined by the National Assembly on August 18, 2026, introduces several changes aimed at strengthening worker protection, particularly for women. The Minister of Public Service, Labor, and Public Service Reform, Mamadou Lamine Diant茅, announced that maternity leave will increase from 14 to 18 weeks, as stipulated in Article 277 of the draft code. The new code also extends the breastfeeding period from 15 to 20 months, providing one hour of breastfeeding leave per day. These changes are intended to better support working mothers returning to employment after childbirth and are part of a broader reform to adapt labor law to current professional realities and enhance employee protection. Beyond maternity, the new Labor Code introduces a legal framework for teleworking, the right to disconnect, improved protection against workplace violence, harassment, and discrimination, and modernized labor administration procedures. It also includes new provisions for fixed-term contracts and technical unemployment. Authorities believe these reforms will improve social protection and working conditions, fostering a more suitable professional environment.
