The financial dimension of gender equality still a blind spot in EU policies

The EESC held a debate at its December plenary on the role of finance and public recovery policies in promoting gender equality and the economic empowerment of women in the EU. The discussion was linked to the adoption of two opinions: one on a gender-based approach to budgeting and investing and the other on how Member States can improve the way in which the direct and indirect measures proposed in their Recovery and Resilience Plans (RRPs) affect gender equality.

Gender equality is still far from being a reality in Europe, especially when it comes to economic empowerment and access to venture capital and funding. "We cannot afford to overlook women's potential in the post-pandemic recovery. Gender mainstreaming must become a reality in national recovery plans, as well as macroeconomic policy and global development," said EESC President Christa Schweng when opening the debate.

Maria Nikolopoulou, rapporteur for the EESC opinion on Gender-based investments in national recovery and resilience plans, added: "Gender equality is not only a women's issue: it benefits everyone. The participation of both women and men and of civil society organisations is crucial for detecting the areas that need to be addressed through the budget".

Ody Neisingh, rapporteur for the EESC opinion on gender lens investing, said: "The financial aspect of gender equality remains a blind spot in EU policies. Even though gender lens investing and gender budgeting are gaining momentum among policy makers, there is still a lack of systemic focus".

Finally, Cinzia Del Rio, co-rapporteur for the opinion on gender-based investments, commented on gender-based measures in RRPs: "Priority should be given to intensifying direct and indirect measures on gender equality when implementing RRPs. This requires targeted public policies, and clear and sustainable investment channels with medium- and long-term resource planning". (tk)