Bahçeşehir University (BAU) is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all employees and students. This policy upholds equality and provides comprehensive support for individuals experiencing pregnancy, childbirth, adoption, breastfeeding, or miscarriage, ensuring that all parents are treated with dignity and fairness, regardless of gender.
The policy also recognizes the importance of paternity support, encouraging shared parental responsibility and enabling non-gestational parents to actively participate in the care and well-being of their families.
1. Equal Treatment and Non-Discrimination
BAU guarantees that no individual will face discrimination based on pregnancy, childbirth, adoption, breastfeeding, or miscarriage. All employees and students are entitled to fair treatment and support during these life stages. Any form of bias or unfavorable treatment related to these circumstances is strictly prohibited.
2. Pregnancy and Childbirth Leave
Employees who give birth are entitled to a minimum of 16 weeks of paid maternity leave. This period includes both pre- and post-birth leave, ensuring the health and well-being of the parent and child. Additional unpaid leave may be granted upon request to support recovery or extended caregiving needs.
3. Paternity Leave for Non-Gestational Parents
Recognizing that parenthood is a shared experience, BAU supports non-gestational parents in playing an active role in early childcare.
This policy reflects the University’s belief that equal parental participation strengthens family bonds and promotes gender equality in caregiving.
4. Adoption Leave
BAU recognizes adoption as an equally significant family milestone. Employees who adopt a child are entitled to the same leave benefits as biological parents, ensuring sufficient time to bond and adjust to new family life. Leave arrangements will be tailored to the needs of the adopting parent and child.
5. Breastfeeding Support
BAU provides a supportive environment for breastfeeding employees.
Employees are entitled to paid daily breaks to nurse or express milk during working hours within the first year after childbirth.
The University also ensures access to designated, private, and hygienic spaces for breastfeeding or expressing milk on campus.
6. Miscarriage Leave
BAU recognizes the physical and emotional impact of miscarriage. Employees who experience a miscarriage are entitled to paid leave to allow for recovery, with the length of leave determined by medical advice. Flexible working arrangements may also be provided upon return to work, if needed.
7. Flexible Working Arrangements
BAU supports flexible working options to help new parents balance professional responsibilities with family life. These may include:
Such arrangements aim to ensure a smooth transition and promote the well-being of both parent and child.
8. Health and Safety
BAU is committed to providing a safe and healthy workplace for pregnant employees and individuals recovering from reproductive health-related conditions. Where necessary, work conditions may be adjusted to minimize risks and ensure employee safety and comfort.
9. Job Security and Return to Work
Employees who take maternity, paternity, adoption, or miscarriage leave are guaranteed job protection. Upon return, they are entitled to resume their previous position or an equivalent role with the same terms and conditions. BAU also provides reintegration support to help employees readjust to the workplace smoothly.
10. Equal Benefits for All Parents
BAU ensures that all parental benefits are applied equally and without gender distinction, covering both biological and adoptive parents. This commitment reflects the University’s core values of fairness, inclusion, and respect for all family structures.
11. Implementation and Responsibility
The implementation and oversight of this policy are the responsibility of the Human Resources Department. HR is responsible for ensuring compliance, managing leave requests, and maintaining confidentiality throughout the process. Employees are encouraged to contact HR for guidance or support regarding any aspect of this policy.
12. Confidentiality and Non-Retaliation
All personal information disclosed under this policy, including medical or family-related details, will be treated as strictly confidential. Employees will not face any form of retaliation, disadvantage, or discrimination for exercising their rights under this policy.
Created: 2022
Updated:2024
EN
