Achieving gender equality is one of the EU’s main objectives, already present in the Treaty of Rome under the provision setting-out the principle of equal pay for work of equal value. In the last two decades, key actions have been undertaken to broaden the meaning of gender equality beyond equal pay, to include labour market participation and decision-making positions, and add further relevance to this policy item in the EU agenda. Besides the fairness and inclusiveness aspects, gender equality can contribute significantly to the success of the EU’s economy and society. In addition to legislative action, EU institutions have recently placed considerable emphasis on soft mechanisms, highlighting the role of social partners in addressing gender equality issues. Industrial relations are central to the employment relationship between workers and firms. Therefore, they couldbe an important lever for achieving gender equality on the labour market.
This conference aims at fostering our knowledge of the role played by industrial relations systems in addressing gender equality on European labour markets as well as identifying key factors related to social dialogue that can impact gender equality. The research project “Visualising and Measuring the Role of Industrial Relations in Addressing Gender Equality” (VIRAGE – VS/2020/0115) will inform the discussion. Its findings will show how industrial relations and social dialogue can shape progress towards the achievement of gender equality in Europe. Further information can be found on the project webpage. The conference will conclude on a panel discussion bringing together participants from EU member states and EU-level organisations. The discussion will centre around best practices and developments in stakeholder strategies to ensure and achieve progress towards gender equality.
This event is free and open to the public.
This project is co-funded by the European Union’s Employment and Social Innovation (EaSI) programme. 
