The Policy on Gender Equality in Cyprus

The note reviews gender equality legislation and policy developments in Cyprus in six key thematic areas including economic independence, the reconciliation of private and professional life, equal representation of women and men in decision-making, the eradication of all forms of violence against women, and the elimination of gender stereotypes, and women’s sexual and reproductive health and rights.

Why it's a good practice: Despite impressive changes have taken place at the legislative and institutional level with regard to gender equality, mostly due to the harmonization process with the aquis communitaire, challenges remain and statistical evidence demonstrate that, although on paper Cyprus’ gender policies seem excellent, little has been done to actively promote these policies and generate awareness such as disseminate information to citizens relating to this new legislation or provide information and training to employers, policy makers, and decision-makers to effectively implement these measures.
From the brief overview of gender equality policy in Cyprus, the need for a comprehensive effort toward the implementation of planned gender-equality measures and to raise awareness through appropriate training and special campaigns is evident. Since little has been done to tackle the lack of gender awareness and appropriate sensitivity of those involved with the implementation of gender equality policies, we risk the policies not actually enhancing gender equality as intended.

Read the full analysis: https://www.europarl.europa.eu/