London Green MEP, Jean Lambert, will be calling for better representation of women in politics and equal opportunities in the workplace at the “Women of Europe – Towards equality” seminar, to be held in Maidenhead on Friday 25th April. The event is organised by the European Centre of the International Council of Women (ECICW) and will receive delegates from across Europe to plan joint action to achieve equality for women.
The ECICW has a wide agenda covering many issues of concern to women, including all forms of violence against women and girls, trafficking, and the need for more women in decision-making positions. The organisation has also been active in researching the importance of the role of women in tackling environmental issues and the effects of climate change.
Jean Lambert, who is a member of the Social Affairs Committee in the European Parliament, said:
“Across the EU women are under-represented in politics. Whilst the vast majority of the electorate thinks there should be more women in the European Parliament, fewer than one in four UK MEPs are female.
“There is a significant and persistent pay gap between men and women across Europe, despite women achieving higher grades at school and making up the majority of university graduates. In many professions the top jobs still go to men.
“There are many reasons for this situation, not least that the current career structure doesn’t support women who take extended leave from work. If we are to achieve equality then we need to ensure that people are able to take career breaks and work flexibly without facing disadvantage in the job market. This change of culture could be beneficial for both men and women.”
Theresa May MP for Maidenhead and Windsor will be also be speaking, as well as Ann Keeling, Head of Gender Policy at the UK Government Equalities Office, and Dr. Mashuq Ally, Head of Equality and Diversity at Birmingham City Council.
The seminar will run from 2-5pm on Friday 25 April at the Holiday Inn, Shoppenhangers Road. It will be open to NCW members and other interested parties.