The master’s thesis examines the rights arising from parental protection insurance as one of the fundamental measures facilitating the reconciliation of family and professional life. The reconciliation of work and family represents a key element of modern social policy, as it enables parents to actively participate in the labour market while fulfilling their parental obligations. Measures aimed at balancing family and professional responsibilities also constitute an important instrument for achieving gender equality. The thesis analyses the European legal framework, particularly through the provisions of Directive (EU) 2019/1158 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 June 2019 on work-life balance for parents and carers, which repealed Council Directive 2010/18/EU, and its implementation in the Slovenian legal system. It examines the rights guaranteed by Slovenian legislation designed to promote the reconciliation of professional and private life, primarily through the Parental Protection, Family Benefits Act and the Employment Relationships Act. The findings show that the Slovenian legal framework provides a broad range of rights, many of which were established even before the implementation of the European requirements. Although the legal framework is adequately designed, its practical realization often proves to be incomplete, as many parents do not exercise their rights to the full extent. These rights are still predominantly utilized by mothers, which further deepens gender inequalities in the economic, employment, and family areas. The thesis concludes that while rights arising from parental protection insurance contribute to the reconciliation of work and family life, additional measures, particularly those involving employers are necessary for more effective balancing.
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