Overview

• Merck's new program grants employees at least 10 days of financially supported leave to care for immediate family members in critical health conditions.
• The initiative will be rolled out over the next 12 months across all 65 countries where Merck operates, covering 63,000 employees.
• While not guaranteeing full salary compensation, the program ensures localized financial support during caregiving leave.
• The program does not affect German employees, who are already covered under existing national caregiving laws, but aims to address unpaid caregiving gaps in other countries.
• Experts highlight the program's significance in an aging global society, where caregiving needs are increasingly pressing.