Diversity and inclusion are pivotal components of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Primarily, they relate to SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) and SDG 5 (Gender Equality), aiming to promote social, economic, and political inclusion and ensure equal opportunities for all, irrespective of gender, age, race, ethnicity, origin, religion, economic status, or disability. Furthermore, diversity and inclusion relate to SDG 4 (Quality Education) by promoting inclusive and equitable quality education. SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) also embodies the values of diversity and inclusion, calling for equal pay for work of equal value and promoting safe and inclusive working environments. Ultimately, the pursuit of diversity and inclusion is indispensable for realizing a fair and sustainable world as envisioned by the SDGs.
Working mothers often find themselves in a difficult situation when trying to balance work and family responsibilities and to manage expectations about their work and parental effectiveness. Family-friendly policies such as maternity leave have been introduced to address this issue. But how are women who then make the decision to go or not go on maternity leave evaluated?