Towards greater gender equality? An examination of gender equity policy in the European Union's labour market.

摘要

Since the late 1970s, the EU has attempted to alleviate gendered labour market inequality throughout its member states with the help of a set of gender equitable policies. While some progress was achieved, both the gender wage gap and the glass ceiling remain firmly in place. Subsequently, women throughout the EU are severely underpaid and under-represented in positions of leadership and power, suggesting that the problem is far from being solved. Why does such blatant gender inequality persist in spite of policies meant to alleviate it? Policies are only as effective as the degree to which they are implemented. This thesis will suggest that the implementation of equity policy is impeded due to a process that renders EU equitable policy less effective than it could be otherwise. Consequently, the policy process needs strengthening and policies need wider utilization by multiple stakeholders, as well as domestic employers to yield greater results.