Gender equality promotion within the European Union institutions

Abstract

Within the European Union, female leadership is observable in three key institutions within the Single Institutional Framework of the European Union. However, this representation alone does not efficiently combat systematic gender inequalities. Despite the extensive literature and documentation surrounding gender equality initiatives championed by the European Union and its institutions, there remains a notable gap in addressing their practical implementation within these bodies. Consequently, this dissertation focuses on scrutinizing the execution of gender equality initiative within the European Union and its institutions, providing a critical evaluation of both successes and enduring challenges. Diverse viewpoints on power distribution and the necessity for increased female representation in decision-making roles are often influenced by gendered perspectives. Numerous factors contribute to gender imbalances in political participation, with research consistently revealing that women are less inclined than men to engage in campaigning, join organisations, or interact with political representatives. These disparities can be attributed to two primary explanations: firstly, women often possess fewer resources compared to men, thereby limiting their capacity for active participation in political processes. Secondly, societal norms and values may discourage women from involvement in political activities, thus perpetuating gender disparities within decision-making spheres. This dissertation employs a comprehensive methodology that incorporates existing literature, policy analysis, empirical data, and interviews to offer insights into the European Union’s advancements in gender equality and areas that requires improvement. The study focuses on the European Commission and the European Parliament as case studies, and through the research questions, it highlights the Union’s strides in promoting gender equality, evaluates the effectiveness of these efforts, and examines factors contributing to areas where efforts have fallen short. The findings underscore persistent obstacles to progress, including member states’ reluctance to fully comply with gender equality measures, continued underrepresentation of women in decision-making roles, and cultural and institutional barriers that hinder advancement. In add, the media’s influence in shaping public perceptions and influencing women’s political engagement emerges as a factor requiring attention, urging future policy directions aimed at enhancing inclusivity and equality within the European political context.