In Malta, a great deal has been accomplished over the years to bring about legal and de facto gender equality. However, the advancement of Maltese women, while significant, remains of concern in certain areas, particularly in employment and in decision-making.

Although women may have full legal rights and equal access to opportunities in education and employment, their participation in the labour market is slow.

While job openings have increased, women tend to remain concentrated in low level, part-time jobs. The female labour market participation rate for full-time employment in 2005 was still the lowest in the EU.

The reconciliation of family, work, and public responsibilities is another major aspect, which requires special attention and effective strategies. Malta has identified five major areas, which call for more commitment towards the achievement of de facto equality:

¤ the mainstreaming of gender equality;

¤ the reconciliation of work and family responsibilities;

¤ the increase of women's representation in decision-making;

¤ the elimination of violence against women; and

¤ giving women the tools to overcome social problems related to single parenthood, drug and alcohol abuse and gambling.

We at NCW must work harder to liaise with Government, as well as all our local partners in business and the unions, to achieve gender equality in practice.