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1A. GENDER EQUALITY AND CITIES
Much has changed in Europe since the first edition of the Gender Equal Cities report in 2019. War, the Covid-19 pandemic, protest movements such as the Women s Marches, and new economic and social challenges have brought gender inequality into a new light and demonstrated that, even with the leaps and bounds made over the past century, there is still a long way to go to achieve global gender equality. The first edition of this report was the first of its kind, stressing the role of cities and municipalities to tackle these challenges. This updated edition builds and expands on that knowledge, introducing new case studies and topics and reflecting the changes of the intervening years. Despite progress made in this time, gender inequality still significantly impacts travel, work, play and life in urban environments. Gender Equal Cities is an initiative from the URBACT Knowledge Hub intended to raise
awareness of gender-based inequalities at a local level and highlight how cities can take action. It brings together the knowledge of people active in the URBACT community and beyond. The work has been enriched by a close partnership with the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) and the results of their European Charter for Equality of Women and Men in Local Life. Gender Equal Cities shows how creating space for all voices, needs and capacities is a necessary step towards building thriving cities and benefits all members of society. This report s themes mirror city departments, sectors and cross-cutting topics, providing practical guides for gender mainstreaming for professionals who work both in specific policy areas and across sectors. It is just as relevant for citizens and resident organisations to help them inspire and support their local administrations.
In the EU, women constitute 52%
48% 52% but only 34.4% of the EU
self-employed
and 30% of start-up
entrepreneurs
In 2020, the overall employment rate of women aged 20-64 was only 66.4% compared to men s 77.2%.
Women account for only 1/3 of political decision-makers in Europe
and around 15% of mayors.
Only 8 of 41 European capitals are led by women mayorsMAYO
R
85%
15%
M AYO
R
M AYO
R
of the total population,
