Commission to tackle gender inequality with new road map and gender institute

Gender inequality in the EU will be tackled by 21 specific activities over the next five years, which are outlined in a new gender equality road map, published by the European Commission. The road map, which was adopted in view of International Women's Day on March 8, sets out six priority areas for action in the 2006-2010 period:

¤ Achieving equal economic independence for women and men;

¤ Enhancing reconciliation of work, private and family life;

¤ Promoting equal participation of men and women in decision-making;

¤ Eradicating gender-based violence and trafficking;

¤ Eliminating gender stereotypes in society; and

¤ Promoting gender equality outside the EU.

Objectives of the road map tackle the pay gap between men and women, support better work/life balance, eliminate violence and trafficking, support gender budgeting and promote gender equality both within and outside the EU.

By January 1, 2007, there will also be a fully operational European Institute for gender equality, which will be a centre of excellence, providing expertise, research and direction.

Apart from the funds for the new institute, which will be in the region of €50 million, there will also be the new €650 million PROGRESS programme, which will fund some of the activities outlined in the road map.

Furthermore, the provisions of EU Gender Equality Directive 2002/73 establish the new network of national gender equality bodies. This review of existing gender equality legislation is in line with the "legislate less but better" drive of Commission President Josè Manuel Barroso.