UK Fathers Demand Reform: ‘Dad Strikes’ Highlight Need for Better Paternity Leave

On June 11, 2025, hundreds of fathers gathered in London and Edinburgh for what is being called the world’s first “Dad Strike,” organized by the advocacy group The Dad Shift. The protest aimed to draw attention to the UK’s inadequate paternity leave policies, which currently offer only two weeks of paid leave, the shortest in Europe and among the lowest in developed countries. Participants, including fathers and mothers, shared personal stories about the challenges of limited leave and its impact on family life. Campaigners argue that better paternity leave helps close the gender pay gap and enables fathers to build stronger relationships with their children.

In a symbolic act to raise awareness, activists from The Dad Shift attached model baby slings to statues of prominent male figures across London and Edinburgh, including Gene Kelly, Thierry Henry, Isambard Kingdom Brunel, and Ken Buchanan. This visual protest aimed to highlight the importance of fatherhood and the need for policy changes to support fathers in their caregiving roles. The campaign has garnered support from various organizations and individuals advocating for gender equality and better family policies.

The movement has gained traction, with polling indicating that a significant majority of fathers wish to take a more active role in parenting. The Dad Shift has called on the UK government to reform paternity leave policies to better support working fathers and promote gender equality in caregiving responsibilities. As the debate continues, the “Dad Strike” serves as a powerful reminder of the need for policy changes that reflect the evolving roles of fathers in family life.