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P1An increasing number of mothers in both developed and developing economies return to employment shortly after giving birth, a trend driven by financial necessity, career ambitions and changing social norms. I regard this as a largely positive development, though one that requires adequate support structures to realise its full benefits.

P2The advantages for individual women are significant. Remaining connected to the workforce protects mothers from the long-term career and pension penalties associated with extended breaks, which disproportionately affect women and contribute to gender pay gaps. Beyond the financial dimension, many mothers report that maintaining professional roles supports their sense of identity and mental wellbeing, making them more engaged and energised at home as well as at work. Supportive parental leave and reliable childcare can help families combine employment and caregiving. Generous leave provision, however, does not itself prove that a return soon after birth is best for every family.

P3Concerns about children's welfare are understandable and should not be dismissed. Research on infant attachment has historically been used to argue that maternal presence in the first years is uniquely important, while the quality and consistency of care are important, the child's age, parental recovery and individual family circumstances also matter. High-quality early childhood education can even provide developmental advantages, particularly in language and social skills.