The challenges faced by the Greek EU presidency in the field of gender equality were presented, on January 22, to the competent committee of the European Parliament in Brussels by Secretary General for Gender Equality Vasso Kollia. Priorities include the promotion of economic rights and the independence of women: these involve increasing the numbers of women in production jobs, in the information and communication technology and digital sectors; reconciling work and family; combating violence against women and getting more women into decision-making roles.

A consultation meeting on the exchange of good practices on female entrepreneurship will take place in Athens on February 27-28, organized by the European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE).

Kollia said that among the top priorities is the implementation of a public awareness campaign on the issue of violence against women. "Equality cannot work without strengthening legislative work and promoting gender mainstreaming in all ministerial councils," Kollia said, adding that "we need policies which help to shield women from poverty and social exclusion."

See also Secretary General for Gender Equality Press Release (28.01.2014)