What are the biggest gender equality issues over the next 15 years?
Achieving gender equality in Europe remains a challenge. In changing times.
We recently asked experts from governments, businesses, policy and advocacy groups to help us plan for the big issues that will affect us in all areas of our lives.
They identified five key themes we need to consider:
- Digitalisation
- Green transition
- Future of work
- Diversifying inequalities
- Shifting values
Within this guide you can explore these issues one by one, or consider how they will affect us either at home, work or in society.
Digitalisation
We live in a world of constant digital change. Change which can improve opportunities and efficiencies, but which can also reinforce gender biases, increase digital divides, and lead to increased online intimidation.
The Digitalisation theme emphasises the need for inclusive digital policies to ensure equitable access and protect against online harassment.
Sub-themes
- AI and Gender Bias
- Cybersecurity and Privacy
- Remote Work and Connectivity
- Digital Literacy and Access
- E-Government Services
- Access to accurate data
Green transition
The green transition presents unique opportunities for promoting gender equality.
Climate change, while disproportionately affecting women, also acts as a catalyst for creating a more environmentally sustainable and gender-inclusive society. How can we shape our environmental and economic policies to capitalise on these opportunities?
Sub-themes
- Policy Integration and Gender-Sensitive Approaches
- Environmental Degradation and Vulnerability
- Climate Change, Migration, and Security
- Sustainable Urban and Rural Development
Future of work
The labour market seems to be changing faster than ever before. Remote working, increased automation and the gig economy bring new opportunities, but at the same time new challenges, particularly for women.
How can we ensure flexibility, and job security, alongside equal opportunities in new fields? And how do we address imbalances relating to unpaid care work.
What are the labour policies we need to be fit for the future?
Sub-themes
- Gig Economy and Precarious Employment
- Care Economy Transformation
- Automation and Job Displacement
- Workplace Flexibility and Culture
- Skills and Education for the Future Workforce
Diversifying inequalities
At the same time as we tackle gender discrimination we can also address other forms of discrimination.
This theme recognises that people who experience discrimination for other reasons, are also likely to face gender discrimination even more.
By addressing the intersectionality of gender with other identities, we can develop policies that tackle all the inequalities which impact vulnerable populations.
Sub-themes
- Intersectionality and Multiple Identities
- Economic Inequalities and Access to Resources
- Healthcare Accessibility and Quality
- Education and Skill Development
Shifting values
The EU’s policy and legal approach to gender equality is constantly evolving.
Social attitudes to gender equality are changing too. How can we achieve full gender equality against the backlash of populism and anti-gender initiatives?
How can we influence the portrayal of gender norms across traditional and social media?
And how can we improve the representation of women in leadership roles to ensure that gender perspectives are integrated into governance and policy-making?
Sub-themes
- Political Representation and Leadership
- Legislation and Policy for Gender Equality
- Social Movements and Activism
- Countering anti-equality narratives
- Sudden shocks to democratic systems
- Cultural Norms and Media Representation