Equality between women and men is one of the fundamental values of the European Union enshrined in our treaties. Our Union is a pioneer in tackling gender-based discrimination and we can be proud of the progress achieved: Europe is one of the safest and most equal places for women in the world.
But our work is not over – the path to full equality in practice is still a long one. Women and girls still face harassment, abuse and violence. And women are still too often prevented from breaking the glass ceiling, receiving lower pay and fewer opportunities for career and business development.
We want girls and women to achieve equality in all aspects of life: access to education, equal pay for equal work, access to top positions in companies and politics as well as protection from violence.
Read full statement here.
More information
European Institute for Gender Equality's press release on the women in tech report
On 8 March, the Commission will announce the twelve finalists of the EU Prize for Women Innovators, the largest prize of its kind worldwide. Since 2011 it celebrates women who have combined scientific excellence with entrepreneurial success.
On 5- 6 June, the Commission will organise the European Development days (#shEDDs), which will be dedicated to Women and Girls at the Forefront of Sustainable Development.
The Annual Fundamental Rights Colloquium on Women's Rights in Turbulent Times addressed violence and harassment against women as well as the economic and political inequality between women and men, particularly focusing on the gender pay gap and on work-life balance.
The launch of Spotlight Initiative by the European Commission together with the United Nations addresses gender-based violence at global level.