The National Action Plan for Gender Equality (ESDIF) 2021–2025 sets out a comprehensive framework to promote substantive gender equality across all sectors of Greek society. Its overarching aim is to eliminate gender-based discrimination and ensure equal rights, opportunities, and participation for women and men. The plan responds to persistent inequalities in employment, decision-making, and social inclusion, while addressing the exacerbation of gender gaps during the COVID-19 pandemic. It aligns with international and European commitments, including the Istanbul Convention and the EU Gender Equality Strategy, and emphasizes coordinated action among ministries, local authorities, and civil society. The strategy is structured around four priority axes: preventing and combating gender-based and domestic violence; promoting equal participation of women in the labour market; increasing women’s representation in decision-making and leadership; and mainstreaming the gender perspective into all sectoral policies. These axes translate into specific objectives such as implementing legislative reforms, strengthening institutional mechanisms, reducing the gender pay gap, fostering female entrepreneurship, and integrating gender equality into education, health, culture, and sport. Special attention is given to vulnerable groups, including migrant women, women with disabilities, and those at risk of poverty or social exclusion. To achieve these objectives, the plan introduces targeted actions like gender-responsive budgeting, awareness campaigns, training programmes, and digital tools for monitoring progress. It also establishes mechanisms for evaluation and accountability through the Gender Equality Observatory and local equality committees. By promoting systemic change and empowering women in all spheres of life, the ESDIF aims to enhance social justice, economic growth, and democratic governance, contributing to Greece’s convergence with European standards of equality and inclusion.
Greece · 2021-05-01