Gender equality has been a fundamental value of the European Union since its creation in 1957. Since the 2000s, the European institutions have stepped up their involvement. The EU has adopted an ambitious strategy and concrete measures to advance equality, but many challenges remain.
A European strategy for equality
Since 2020, the strategy for gender equality has set key objectives for the EU, with an annual review and a roadmap to follow. This strategy aims to ensure equality in all areas: access to employment, pay, political participation, combating violence and gender stereotypes. In particular, the EU adopted a landmark directive against violence against women in 2024. These measures are part of a drive to bring about a profound change in attitudes and practices in the Member States.
Combating professional inequalities
Professional equality is a central focus of European action. The Commission has imposed rules on wage transparency and is aiming for greater gender parity on company boards. The EU also supports programs to promote the integration and economic independence of women, in particular through the European Social Fund. The latter finances local initiatives for female employment and work-life balance. Information and awareness campaigns are regularly conducted to encourage women to take up positions of responsibility and invest in traditionally male-dominated sectors.
Political parity and the fight against stereotypes
The EU encourages gender parity in politics and decision-making, and has launched campaigns to combat gender stereotypes in the media and career choices. The #EndGenderStereotypes campaign, run in 2023, aimed to highlight the role played by gender stereotypes in society. The EU also emphasizes the importance of a more equitable sharing of domestic and family tasks to enable women to participate fully in professional and political life.
The roadmap for women’s rights
In March 2025, the Commission unveiled a roadmap for women’s rights, which sets out the principles and long-term objectives for a more equal society. This roadmap aims to strengthen women’s rights in all areas, combat discrimination, and promote their autonomy. It also includes measures to improve women’s access to health services, justice, and education, as well as mechanisms to protect women who are victims of violence.
Challenges and prospects
Despite progress, equality remains uneven across Member States and areas. The EU is already preparing its next strategy for 2026–2030, which will need to go further in combating discrimination and promoting women’s economic empowerment. The public consultation for this strategy was launched in May 2025, demonstrating the importance attached to citizen participation. The European institutions insist on the need for coordinated and sustainable action. Coordination between public authorities, businesses, and civil society is needed to transform the reality on the ground and make gender equality a concrete reality in all aspects of daily life.