Parental leave, PTO and job protection: 10 countries with the best labor laws

The U.S. is infamous for being a bit stingy when it comes to worker protections and benefits — so it's not surprising that many Americans envy how other countries treat their employees. 

Personal injury law firm Bisnar Chase surveyed 3,000 employees, asking them which international labor laws they wish they could adapt in their own states. From Canada to Australia, 10 winning countries were picked for their inclusion of laws that addressed job security policies, flexible work protections, generous leave benefits and work-life balance. 

Employers should take note, says Brian Chase, senior partner at Bisnar Chase. Employee well-being should be top priority, no matter an employee's location. Yet the path to making this a reality in the U.S. will not be easy. 

"Countries can create a supportive and healthy work environment that benefits both employees and employers in the long run," Chase says. "Overcoming barriers in the U.S. will require a combination of sustained political pressure from workers and advocates, increased public awareness and support for progressive labor policies, and a willingness among policymakers to prioritize the well-being of workers alongside economic considerations over corporate greed."

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While some American employers would view many of these foreign labor laws as too progressive or hindrances to their business, Chase underlines that laws protecting employee health and well-being are essential to running a productive, sustainable business. But even though the U.S. lacks comparable federal laws for workers, that doesn't mean U.S. employers can't catch up to other parts of the world. For example, California recently introduced a bill that would limit if an employer could contact their workers outside of business hours. While it did not pass, there are signs a more progressive approach to work could be forthcoming. 

If employers are looking for more employee-friendly policies, here are 10 countries leading the way right now: