This Directive lays down minimum requirements designed to achieve equality between men and women with regard to labour market opportunities and treatment at work, by facilitating the reconciliation of work and family life for workers who are parents, or carers.

To that end, this Directive provides for individual rights related to the following:

(a) paternity leave, parental leave and carers' leave;

(b) flexible working arrangements for workers who are parents, or carers.