Gender equality is moving forward at a “snail’s pace”, according to a new report.
The Gender Equality Index, conducted by the European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE), found that although gender equality has moved forward throughout Europe, overall progress is very slow.
The research reported that the EU’s score is just four points higher than it was ten years ago – at 66.2 out of 100.
The UK, along with the Czech Republic, Lithuania, Finland and Slovakia, have made no progress in the last ten years, according to the report. The UK is also ranked two positions lower in the index in 2015 than it was in 2005.
The top performing country is Sweden with a score of 82.6, while Greece has moved to the bottom with 50 points. Italy is the most improved country, gaining 12.9 points to place itself at 14 on the ladder.
The index notes that the increase in gender equality has received the biggest boost in decision-making.
Virginija Langbakk, Director of European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE), said, “We are moving forward at a snail’s pace.”
“We are still a long way off from reaching a gender-equal society and all countries in the European Union have room to improve.”
“In some areas, the gaps are even bigger than ten years ago.”
“Our Gender Equality Index clearly shows whether government policies are matching the specific needs of women and men and whether they are working or not.”
Věra Jourová, Commissioner for Justice, Consumers and Gender Equality, added, “The new results of the Gender Equality Index show that across all areas of life inequality prevails.”
“This means Europe has a duty to act.”
“This year I will propose further measures to help empower women and address the gender pay gap.”
“Equality is not about making women more like men, but about creating an environment where both sexes can have equal choices and fully participate in social, work and family life.”
