Gender equality in Bulgaria and Romania must be a priority

The leader of European Socialist women calls on the European Commission to prioritise the issue of gender equality and anti-discrimination measures in Bulgaria and Romania just after the European Parliament’s plenary session debate on accession.

Zita Gurmai MEP, President of PES Women and Vice-Chair of the Parliament’s Women’s Rights Committee stated “I fully support the accession of Bulgaria and Romania in 2007. During the negotiation period, the European Commission must encourage these countries to tackle the problems experienced by women and ethnic minorities. Although, legal structures have been adapted, equal treatment and equal opportunities are not part of the reality of women’s lives in these countries.”

“Particular attention should also be paid to women from ethnic minorities who suffer double discrimination on the grounds of gender and ethnic origin.”

In an official visit to Bulgaria last week, Zita Gurmai examined the gender equality situation and met leaders of women and civil society organisations.

The proportion of women in Bulgarian public administration is 25%, they only represent 7% of the local administrators and even less in local governments. This proportion is even lower in Romania (17% in public administration and 12% in the national parliament).

Both of these countries have serious difficulties in their fight against trafficking and sexual exploitation of women and children.

For more information please call Emma Reynolds on +32 485 35 81 05