The European Commission plays a very important role in the promotion of gender equality. The Commission’s annual reports as well as the multi-annual frameworks for actions have contributed to put gender equality at the heart of the European cooperation. Also, mutual exchange of best practises amongst member states has been a vital instrument in renewing and strengthening gender equality policies in the Union.

As a consequence, women and men have equal rights in the European Union. Further more Europe is at the forefront in the promotion of gender equality and equal opportunities for women and men globally, including at the labour market and in education.

During the Danish Presidency of the Council of the European Union gender equality is given a high priority by the Danish Government. There will be made efforts to ensure further progress for the benefit of all women and men in Europe.

The Minister for Gender Equality will give priority to the following issues:

1. The Minister for Gender Equality will chair a debate regarding women on company boards during the meeting of the Council in February


2. As part of the follow-up of the UN Beijing action plan, the Presidency will put the emerging issue of gender equality and climate change on the EU agenda


3. The Danish Presidency will promote and strengthen gender equality on the global level at the annual meeting of the UN Commission on the Status of Women


4. The Minister for Gender Equality will facilitate the exchange of best practises on how to increase the number of young women in science, technology, engineering and math, as well as how to diminish the drop-out rate of boys in the educational system.

During the Presidency focus will also be placed on gender equality and health as well as trafficking in human beings in the EU.

Denmark will be working closely with the European Commission as well as the European Institute for Gender Equality. Also, Denmark wishes to ensure a progressive cooperation with relevant NGO’s in promoting gender equality.