The long-run impacts of paid maternity leave on height and educational attainment

Abstract This study investigates the extent to which paid maternity leave affects educational attainment and adult height in 29 developing countries between 1990 2019. The identification hinges upon variation achievement health outcomes of individuals residing same place but exposed different lengths at birth due policy reforms. analysis uncovers long-lasting favorable effects as an additional week duration could result increase around 0.007 years 0.056 cm height. calls for enforcement extension leave.