From gap to growth: Advancing women’s economic activity
Closing the gender employment gap is key to a gender-equal and competitive Europe.
Europe is facing significant challenges that require higher levels of economic activity. Women hold the greatest unleveraged potential for expanding the labour force, with up to 17.3 million additional active individuals by 2030. Increasing women’s economic activity is therefore essential to strengthening both gender equality and Europe’s long-term competitiveness.
Although women outperform men in educational attainment, their employment rate remains significantly lower. Women are more likely to work part-time, hold temporary roles or experience career breaks. Even in Europe, home to 15 of the world’s 20 most gender-equal countries, important steps remain before women and men enjoy truly equal opportunities in the labour market and throughout their careers.
Employers contribute to progress in a variety of ways and play a vital role in bringing women to the labour market. However, many of the factors shaping outcomes lie beyond their control. Unlocking women’s full economic potential therefore requires coordinated reforms and sustained efforts across several policy areas.
How do employers contribute to increasing women's labour market participation and creating equal opportunities? What motivates their efforts, and what challenges do they face? How can the EU and the new Gender Equality Strategy support these efforts?
