The voice of Mothers: Uncovering the Truth Behind the Numbers

Our survey of over 9,600 mothers was conducted end of 2024 across 12 European countries: Belgium, France, Italy, Germany, Portugal, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom. It reveals just how much work still needs to be done.

One striking figure: 35% of fathers in 12 European countries have not taken their paternity leave, even though it is their right. Cultural norms, workplace pressures, financial and social barriers—so many obstacles still stand in the way of true equality in caregiving–which is a condition for equality in the workplace and public space.

And yet, despite these challenges, I left the webinar feeling hopeful said one participant who summed up the spirit of the conversation: “Now we have the power, the potential, the responsibility to change these mentalities and practices.”

That’s exactly why we do this work at Make Mothers Matter: to listen, study, and bring to light the realities of motherhood—without judgment, but with a call to action. Because change is possible. Because we all have a role to play in building a more inclusive and just society.

Watch the full recording our the event

Read our State of Motherhood in Europe 2024 Survey Report

A big thank you to

• Clémentine Sarlat, mother, former sports journalist; host of La Matrescence podcast
• Nikki van der Gaag, Consultant & Writer; Senior fellow at Equimundo
• Alain Grégoire, Consultant perinatal psychiatrist; Visiting Professor at London School of Economics