Gender equality is a fundamental right, a common value of the EU, and a necessary condition for the achievement of the EU objectives of growth, employment and social cohesion. Current strong EU gender equality legislation is important but it is yet to be fully implemented. Furthermore, legislation alone cannot adequately address the structural and institutional dynamics that continue to generate inequalities between women and men in Europe. Gender equality can only be achieved with a strong and clear commitment at the highest political level.
In 2006, even with the commitments of EU Member States to the Lisbon strategy, the Growth and Jobs agenda and the existence of a binding set of European legislation concerning gender equality in employment, serious gender gaps remain in employment in practice, for example unequal pay (gender pay gap=16%), a lower employment rate (55% for women, 70% for men) and a higher risk of poverty for women, especially women from vulnerable groups. EWL welcomes and looks forward to the successful implementation of the Commission’s Roadmap for equality between women and men 2006-2010 in helping to achieve the Lisbon goals. Especially since the gender dimension of the Lisbon strategy for jobs and growth must be strengthened. The Roadmap reaffirms the dual approach of gender equality based on gender mainstreaming – the promotion of gender equality in all policy areas and activities – and specific measures. DOWNLOAD THE FULL DOCUMENT: EWL Spring Council 2006 EN Final
