This is the eighth in a series of primers developed to support policymakers and practitioners in Asia and the Pacific in their efforts to strengthen social protection. The primer presents key design features to ensure the right to maternity leave and maternity cash benefits. It also addresses the need for additional care leave schemes and benefits.

The first primer in this series explores why social protection is needed; the second explains how to design inclusive and robust social protection systems and focuses on tax-financed income security; the third focuses on its effective implementation; the fourth discusses options for financing; the fifth highlights key concepts and schemes required for disability-inclusive social protection; the sixth illustrates how the design of social protection systems can either exacerbate or mitigate the disadvantage women; and the seventh highlights key design elements in developing an inclusive and comprehensive old age pension system.