World Cup held up mirror on maternity care: We shouldn't look away | Arkansas Democrat Gazette

World Cup held up mirror on maternity care: We shouldn't look away highlights a stark contrast in paid maternity leave among World Cup competitors, underscoring concerns for families beyond the tournament. The article notes that all 48 participating countries provide some form of national paid maternity leave, except the United States, which does not guarantee it. It connects the issue to Arkansas through Arkansans for Improving Maternal Health, describing how limited postpartum support and child-care access can affect when parents return to work. It cites an AIM white paper, “Strengthening Arkansas: Maternal Health as Economic Infrastructure,” and states that child-care-related disruptions cost Arkansas employers an estimated $665 million annually, with replacement of one worker costing between 50% and 200% of annual salary. The piece frames maternal health and child care as economic infrastructure tied to workforce stability.