Brussels, Belgium – December 7, 2015
The Netherlands, Slovakia and Malta, the Member States holding the EU Presidency during the 18 – month period from January 2016 to July 2017 present their Declaration on gender equality during the EPSCO Council. The document, signed by the responsible minister from each Member State, gives an insight to the views and plans of the upcoming Presidencies.
In the Declaration, it is stated that achieving gender equality is one of the objectives and tasks of the European Union, and mainstreaming equality between women and men in all its activities represents a general aim of the Union. Equality between women and men is a prerequisite for ensuring growth, prosperity, welfare and social inclusion.
The Declaration focuses on boosting the economic activity of women and their participation in the labour market. Increased employment of women can help to reduce the risk of poverty and social exclusion.
It further states that “the rise in poverty and social exclusion in the aftermath of the crisis has affected both men and women. However, in general, women face a much higher risk of social exclusion and poverty than men. Accordingly, it is essential to work systematically towards ensuring their economic independence.”
A list of concrete activities on gender equality to be carried out in the coming 18 months supports the Declaration.
Trio Declaration on Gender Equality
