On Wednesday, the New Zealand’s parliament passed legislation, granting paid leave to domestic violence victims. This according to supporters, is a groundbreaking measure to help those trying to escape abusive relationships. .
Green Party lawmaker Jan Logie, said granting victims 10 days of extra leave a year would allow them to “stop the violence and get help without worrying about losing their jobs.” .
“This is a win for victims, a win for employers, and a win for society,” Logie said, describing the move as a “world first” after parliament approved the bill by 63 votes to 57.
It is the first western country to introduce nationwide paid domestic violence leave. The Philippines in 2004 granted 10 days of paid leave to those suffering domestic violence.
