Belgium (Brussels Morning Newspaper), The recent gathering of EU gender equality ministers in Brussels marked a significant milestone in the ongoing pursuit of gender parity within Europe. Led by Secretary Marie-Colline Leroy, the Belgian Secretary of State for Gender Equality, discussions centered on reflecting on past achievements, addressing future challenges, and outlining a vision for sustained progress.
The informal ministerial meeting, held at the Egmont Palace under the framework of Belgium’s presidency of the Council of the EU, saw an array of discussions and initiatives aimed at advancing gender equality across the continent.
Secretary Leroy, while acknowledging the progress made, underscored the imperative of leveraging the momentum of the new legislative term to ensure equal opportunities for all within the European Union. Highlighting the importance of supporting victims of sexual violence, ministers from Poland, Denmark, and Cyprus, alongside the incoming trio of presidencies, visited the Brussels Sexual Assault Centre, demonstrating a collective commitment to combating gender-based violence.
The gathering was structured into three stages, each addressing crucial aspects of the gender equality agenda.
Reflecting on Past Achievements (Stage 1): The initial session delved into major accomplishments in recent years, emphasizing the ratification of the Istanbul Convention, agreements on the Violence Directive, and the implementation of directives promoting women’s economic autonomy. These achievements underscored the EU’s commitment to combating gender violence and promoting gender balance across various sectors.
Addressing Future Challenges (Stage 2): The second session focused on the outlook towards 2030 and beyond, stressing the necessity of addressing new challenges amidst economic, ecological, and digital transitions. An intersectional approach to gender equality was highlighted, recognizing the diverse impacts of climate disruption and economic opportunities on women and men.
Concluding Session and Challenges (Stage 3): The final session reaffirmed the commitment to advancing gender equality beyond 2025. A pivotal moment came with the signing of a declaration by Equality Ministers from Spain, Belgium, and Hungary, demonstrating shared dedication to realizing gender equality for all Europeans. However, challenges such as digital technologies perpetuating existing inequalities and persistent gender-based violence were also acknowledged.
Commissioner Helena Dalli addressed the challenges ahead, emphasizing the need for continuous reflection, proactive strategies, and collaborative efforts to achieve gender equality in Europe. She highlighted the prevalence of gender-based violence, wage and pension gaps, and the importance of incorporating a gender perspective into the green and digital transitions.
The meeting, organized by the Belgian presidency, outlined several key discussions and initiatives, including prioritizing gender equality amidst ongoing transitions, strengthening institutional mechanisms, and progressing gender equality initiatives. The commitment to advancing gender equality within the EU’s institutional framework was underscored, with a focus on legislative measures, social initiatives, and political engagement to create a Union of Equality for all.
