Gaps in addressing gender equality

Gender equality measures are integrated and implemented within the five ESIF to a varying degree, both in the Funds themselves and at Member State level.
Within each fund, the following was observed:
 ƒ Gender mainstreaming and references to gender equality objectives are often highlighted only in the chapter on “horizontal themes”, without further impact on the content of the programmes. ƒ Gender equality is often only addressed by describing inclusion of gender experts in the programming process and in the provision of technical expertise.
ƒ Information about gender gaps and inequalities, along with means of addressing these gaps, is insufficient. ƒ Although a large number of OPs state that a gender perspective is applicable, and reference is made to
the relevant policy framework of the particular Member State, the majority of OPs lack a gender analysis that substantiates the contextual information of the programmes.
ƒ When gender in/equalities are dealt with, the focus is on remunerated and non-remunerated work, care services and education.
ƒ Where gender objectives are set, these are seldom based on a gender gap analysis and are thus not followed by gender-aware indicators.
ƒ Within the full project cycle, most focus is put on gender equality in the analysis and planning phase, with less attention paid to gender in the implementation and monitoring phase. Evaluation reports provide little information on gender equality.
In general, the gender assessment of ESIF 2014-2020 programmes conducted in 11 Member States pointed to a major gender equality gap in the programming cycle within specific objectives and planned/funded priorities/interventions/actions as specified in OPs.