All people are equal and shall live their lives free of violence and discrimination.
Gender equality is a core value of the European Union. It is a fundamental right enshrined in the Charter of the Fundamental Rights of the European Union, its Treaties, as well and the key principle of the European Pillar of Social Rights.
Gender equality and women’s rights are indispensable and indivisible parts of human rights and the basis of the rule of law and resilient democracies. Achievements of gender equality and women’s rights are vital and a precondition to ensure freedom, security, justice, inclusion and well-being for the whole of European society and to reach the full potential of the Union in all areas.
In order to achieve full gender equality, it is necessary to address the underlying causes and instances of inequality, intersectional discrimination and biases, like structural inequalities and stereotypes, which result in discrimination and unequal treatment of women in all their diversity. To this end, it is crucial to implement the principles of gender mainstreaming and gender budgeting in all legislation and policies of the Union and the Member States.
This charter sets uniform, Europe-wide standards for women’s rights and shall serve as a guide towards gender equality in the enactment and implementation of all Union policies at European and national level. It also reaffirms the commitment of the Union to achieve gender equality and ensure respect and protection of fundamental rights of women in all their diversity, whilst preventing any setbacks in their accessibility and enjoyment.
The European Commission, European Parliament and European Council therefore recognise the rights and principles set out hereafter and underline the importance of protecting these rights.
