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Can EU economic powers be used to improve equality in Europe? Too often we are told that the EU has little competence in the area of equality, and that the Europe 2020 Strategy, the control of national budgets and internal market rules bear no relevance to the equality agenda. I disagree.

Last week I attended an event on non-discrimination and equality in Rome, hosted by the Italian Presidency of the Council of the EU and the European Commission. These were our proposals:

• When it comes to achieving the poverty, employment and education targets of Europe 2020, we should establish ‘sub-targets’ to encourage member states to address the needs of women, youth, the elderly, people with disabilities and ethnic and religious minorities, all of whom are over-represented in these vulnerable situations.
• Concerning the internal market, member states should approve the Commission’s proposal for legislation to ensure that at least 40% of company boards consist of women. Women are not missing out on these powerful roles because they are under-educated, but because they are discriminated against.
• Adopt the Anti-Discrimination Directive in access to goods and services. We cannot expect those who cannot access quality housing, education, transport and insurance services to be fully included in our society; for example, someone with no access to child care is unlikely to be able to take on a full time job.
• Encourage member state action through the use of preconditions (‘ex-ante conditionalities’), taking into account the social impact of EU policies. The EU should demonstrate that its policies promote gender equality, accessibility and diversity in our society.
• Finally, we must look at the overall picture of equality. Too often, discrimination and poverty are intertwined. When member states increase the cost of access to university, health services, etc, we need to encourage them to consider how such policies impact on equality standards. Social and economic policies go hand in hand with equality.

The EU has strong powers that can be used to improve equality in Europe. What I have brought home with me from Rome is the sense that in my role as a director, and as a father, I can use my powers to improve equality in my areas of influence. We all have the power to bring about change: I hope you will use yours.

Let’s engage!

Pierre Baussand, Director