How to strengthen gender equality in Europe

Ahead of the International Women’s Day, we launch our new paper “Priorities for Strengthening Gender Equality in Europe”, to highlight the critical role women play in boosting Europe’s workforce and propose ways to increase their participation. Unlocking their full potential is key to strengthening Europe’s economy. A shrinking population, an ageing society, and declining competitiveness are putting pressure on our economy. By 2100, the working-age population will decline by nearly 50 million. With birth rates below replacement levels, our future workforce is at risk. Currently, only 1 in 5 ICT specialists in the EU are women, and they make up just 30% of start-up entrepreneurs. Increasing their economic activity could add 17.3 million active workers to the EU labour market by 2030.  We focus on 3 key areas: increasing women’s economic activity; fighting gender stereotypes; transforming education for the digital era.