While this is true, I'm not sure it's the "employers" in those countries that offer the paid leave to mothers / fathers. Rather, it's mandated by law, leaving

While this is true, I'm not sure it's the "employers" in those countries that offer the paid leave to mothers / fathers. Rather, it's mandated by law, leaving them very little say in the matter. I also suspect that the tax structure is set up to make this possible - i.e. I don't think it's individual companies that pay for the leave (this would kill many small companies), but rather the government uses part of the income tax to reimburse companies with employees on this type of leave. I'd love some confirmation / addition info from anyone who actually knows how it works.