The European Parliament has adopted an important report, of which MEP Josianne Cutajar was the negotiator on behalf of S&D. This report will ensure greater gender equality. The vote in plenary took place after the report on gender mainstreaming in cohesion policy passed through the Regional Development Committee.

This report sends a strong message that women cannot be left behind. And for this reason, there should be a link to ensures and guarantees equality by Member States that use EU cohesion funds.

“It is our intention to see that this report leads to the promotion of more equality, which will subsequently mean an improvement in the quality of life of women all over Europe,” Josianne Cutajar stated.

Cutajar explained that it is paramount that through cohesion funds, social scourges such as gender-based violence are tackled, while other issues such as better work-life balance are also addressed.

The report also includes a strong reference in relation to combatting LGBTI discrimination.

“This is a report that promotes equality, innovation, social justice and respect”, noted Cutajar. “Our duty now, is to continue pushing to move from words and reports to factual equality. My work in this area will continue ", concluded the Maltese MEP.