Gender equality is a priority for the European Union
The European Union prioritizes gender equality, with the principle of equal pay for men and women established in 1957. Despite progress, inequalities persist, such as the 13% gender pay gap in 2021. Women are underrepresented in decision-making roles, particularly in the European Parliament. Violence against women is a serious issue, with one in three women experiencing physical or sexual violence. The EU has taken steps to address gender disparities, including mandatory data disclosure to reveal pay gaps and rules against violence, such as cyber violence and female genital mutilation. The EU has ratified the Istanbul Convention to protect women from all forms of violence.