ABSTRACT
The original Convention Concerning Maternity Protection was adopted by the International Labour Organisation in 1919. At its 35th Session in June, 1952, the General Conference considered a revised Convention text and a supplementary Recommendation prepared by the Office of the Director-General. The General Conference adopted the new Convention by a vote of 114 to 36 with 25 abstentions. The new treaty extends the coverage of its terms to include agricultural and nonindustrial undertakings as well as to women wage earners working at home. It also extends the period of maternity leave to twelve weeks, from six, and increases the flexibility with which it can be taken. The new treaty also adds the requirement that employers allow mothers time for nursing at work which time is to be treated as part of the work day. The Recommendation has similar provisions but with higher and more precise standards.
