The principle of equality between the sexes is enshrined in the Romanian constitution, though the main law governing gender equality was adopted only during the process of Romania’s entry into the European Union (EU). The EU acquis certainly played a key part in the elaboration of political and administrative tools for gender equality. The two national structures with gender-equality responsibilities (the National Agency for Equal Opportunities and the National Anti-discrimination Council) were created as part of the conditions for EU accession.
About
Stuctures
In Romania gender equality falls under the responsibility of two main institutions: the Directorate for Equal Opportunities between Women and Men (which replaced the former National Agency for Equal Opportunities between Women and Men), within the Ministry of Labour, Family, Social Protection and Senior Citizens, and the National Anti-discrimination Council. The former is exclusively dedicated to gender equality, while the latter is a general anti-discrimination body.
Laws and Policies
The main law governing gender equality was adopted during the process of Romania’s entry into the EU, as part of the acquis communautaire: this is Law No. 202/2002 regarding the Equal Opportunities of Women and Men, which has been re-promulgated and amended several times. It enforces equal opportunities and equal treatment in the fields of labour, access to education, health, culture and information.
Methods & Tools
Although some statistics are produced and gender indicators do exist, no other gender-mainstreaming methods are currently used.
