Men and Gender Equality in Europe

Over 200 people participated in a conference on 'Men and Gender Equality in Europe', organised by the European Movement International (EMI), held at the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) in Brussels on January 25.

In his introduction, Pat Cox, president of EMI, said gender equality is central to the achievement of European Union goals. The concept of gender equality is no longer being seen as an isolated women's issue but in a more inclusive perspective that recognises the role of men as a driving force towards gender equality.

Commissioner for Employment and Social Affairs Vladimir Spidla emphasised the EU's commitment towards the promotion of equal opportunities. He referred to the Roadmap for Equality between women and men 2006-2010, which reflects the EU goals for the achievement of full equality as a fundamental value of the Treaty of the Constitution.

EESC, SOC president Brenda King spoke about gender equality in professional and political life in Europe and the risk of poverty among women in the EU.

Panel presentations of studies carried out included 'Work, Public Life and the Family - Women and Men in five European Contexts'; 'Adoption of Working Hours Laws'; 'Gender Equality and the Role of Men'; 'Rethinking the Role of Women and Men in Society'; 'Mass media and the redistribution of power'; Gender Policies and Actions in the EU programmes 2007-2013'; 'Equal Distribution of Care Tasks and Support for Reconciliation between Private life and Professional and Political life in Europe'; and a presentation of a good practice in private life from Italy, Team Game.

A number of issues raised addressed men's needs and the importance of fathers to play an active part in the life of their children. Changing stereotypes of men, particularly as portrayed in the media both in men's and women's magazines, and obstacles for fathers in using parental leave, including social disapproval and fear of compromising career, were also brought forward.

Participants felt that men's health issues, including the lower life expectancy rate, require further study. A Charter of Intent on Gender Equality was launched in which the signatories committed to work for an equal and active European citizenship in everyday life and at the workplace.

NCW was represented by vice-president Grace Attard, who is also an EESC member.