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| Women on Boards: Vice-President Viviane Reding and Markus Klimmer, Managing Director at Accenture di |
| Vice-President Viviane Reding, the EU's Justice Commissioner, met with Markus Klimmer, Managing Director at Accenture, today to discuss how best to improve gender balance on company boards.
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| NCW congratulates Maltese Women MEPs |
| The National Council of Women welcomes the news that three women have been elected as MEPs, giving women a 50% presence amongst the six Maltese MEPs. |
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| WOMEN: 59 days in 2013 before equal remuneration in Europe |
| Dublin, 01/03/2013 (Agence Europe) - It is only from 28 February this year that women in Europe started to earn the same salary as men. An additional 59 days are therefore needed for women to reduce the pay gap - which this year still stands at 16.2% according to figures published by the European Commission.
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| (AE) WOMEN: Consultation and future action on genital mutilation |
| Brussels, 13/02/2013 (Agence Europe) -European Commissioner for Fundamental Rights Viviane Reding is preparing to launch a public consultation and concrete initiatives to tackle female genital mutilation in March. During the period of the consultation, a conference, organised with other Commissioners, on the fight against violence against women will be held. |
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| AE) WOMEN: Already more women on company boards after quota proposal |
| Brussels, 25/01/2013 (AgenceEurope) - The European Commission believes that its controversial proposal on a quota of women on company boards could be bearing fruit. It notes that in less than a year, twice as many women are now on company boards in Europe, with a significant increase in the large majority of member states. Commissioner for Justice, Fundamental Rights and Citizenship Viviane Reding seized the moment to present these encouraging results to the World Economic Forum in Davos on Friday 25 January. |
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| WOMEN: 50/50 declaration for parity in institutions after 2014 |
| Brussels, 22/11/2012 (Agence Europe) - MEPs are now ready to do battle to defend equality in the European institutions after the 2014 elections. A “multi-party” declaration was presented on Wednesday 22 November at the European Parliament during the plenary session. |
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| (AE) WOMEN: Parliamentary pressure to counter domestic violence |
| Brussels, 19/11/2012 (Agence Europe) - Five MEPs are putting pressure on the EU to ratify the international convention to prevent and combat violence against women. Mikael Gustafsson (GUE/NGL, Sweden), Barbara Matera (EPP, Italy), Antonya Parvanova (ALDE, Bulgaria), Raül Romeva (Greens/EFA, Spain) and Britta Thomsen (S&D, Denmark) are urging their colleagues to sign a written declaration in this connection. The declaration calls on the EU to ratify the Council of Europe convention on tackling domestic violence and violence against women. It also urges member states to subsequently take action against this phenomenon. |
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| (AE) WOMEN: Nicosia progresses pay gap debate |
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Brussels, 31/10/2012 (Agence Europe) - The Cypriot Presidency is pushing the pay gap debate forwards - the difference in pay between men and women still being on average 16% in Europe. At a conference organised in Cyprus on this topic on 29-30 October, the Presidency concluded that the reduction of this pay gap comes through “promoting social dialogue and tripartite cooperation as a way of tackling this problem”.
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| (AE) WOMEN: Reding is snubbed - quotas deferred until mid-November Brussels, 23/10/2012 (Agence Euro |
| The quota of 40% women on bluechip company boards has been postponed, but Viviane Reding is determined not to give up her highly controversial proposal for a directive. She promises that the dossier will be back on the Commission agenda by the end of November, when it will be stronger and more open to subsidiarity. Reding, who is optimistic, said that after a century-long battle her proposal could wait another couple of weeks |
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| (AE) WOMEN: Moment of truth for Reding and corporate quotas |
| Brussels, 22/10/2012 (Agence Europe) - The College of Commissioners may sweep away with one hand the proposal to bring in a 40% quota for women on management boards in European companies quoted on the stock exchange, a proposal that Commissioner Viviane Reding plans to submit on Tuesday. |
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| Women - Reding bases argument on subsidiarity quotas |
| Brussels, 05/10/2012 (Agence Europe) - Viviane Reding, the commissioner responsible for justice, fundamental rights and citizenship, has already been able to get into her stride with regard to feminine quotas in large companies - ahead of time and on converted ground. |
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| The EWL has written to the European Commission and Member States |
| The EWL has written to the European Commission and Member States in response to a letter signed by 9 countries against a proposed EU Directive to increase the number of women on boards across Europe. Although well below our expectations, the EWL is giving its full backing to Commissioner Reding’s proposal, and calling on all parties to do the same. |
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| (AE) WOMEN: ECB, letter from Goulard to Juncker on parity |
| Brussels, 18/09/2012 (Agence Europe) - French liberal MEP, Sylvie Goulard, has directly addressed the president of Eurogroup, Jean-Claude Juncker, to again draw attention to the question of respecting equal opportunities for women when appointing the sixth member of the European Central Bank board of governors. The economic and financial committee, of which Goulard is a member, effectively suspended the hearing of Yves Mersch for a post on the board of governors, due to the lack of gender balance on the board.
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| (AE) WOMEN: Greens favour quotas and hit back at nine blocking states |
| Brussels, 20/09/2012 (Agence Europe) - The Greens are hitting back at the intention of nine member states not to support Viviane Reding's awaited proposal on setting a quota of 40% women on the boards of bluechip companies.
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| Women on Boards: Viviane Reding meets with leaders of Europe's business schools and industry |
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On the 19 June, EU Justice Commissioner Viviane Reding met with European Industry Associations, European Business Schools and Senior Executive Women to discuss progress being made on improving the gender balance in company boardrooms. |
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| The National Council of Women supports the Act to provide protection for human embryos |
| NCW has always advocated for legislation of alternative IVF treatment not least because of the sensitivity and the consequences for both parents and society if it had to remain unregulated. NCW believes that IVF treatment should be for heterosexuals within a stable family environment The Council has always supported the protection of embryos as the first cell of a human life and, with the development of alternative treatment over the past years this has become possible successfully. |
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| WOMEN: Campaign to get more women into scientific careers |
| Brussels, 22/06/2012 (Agence Europe) - Science is also a “girl thing”. That is the message the Commission intends to drive home throughout the EU over the next three years to get more girls interested in science and encourage more women to choose research as a career.
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| Women on Boards: Vice-President Viviane Reding meets with leaders of Europe's business schools and i |
| Today, EU Justice Commissioner Viviane Reding met with European Industry Associations, European Business Schools and Senior Executive Women to discuss progress being made on improving the gender balance in company boardrooms.
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| UfM adopts new project to support women’s empowerment in the Mediterranean |
| A project aimed at developing women’s empowerment in the Mediterranean through the development of effective field projects and the setting up of networks and platforms, was adopted by Senior Officials of the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) at a meeting held last month. |
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| Date: 25/02/2007 |
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25 February 2007 (Date: 25/02/2007)
NEWS AND VIEWS SUNDAY 25 FEBRUARY 2007
NCW FOUNDATION DAY DINNER
The traditional NCW Foundation Day celebration held on Friday 23 February was another popular event in the Council’s calendar. Members and guests met at the Corinthia Old Villa Balzan for dinner. Guests of honour, Mrs Josephine Amato Gauci, first President of National Council of Women in 1964 attended the occasion, which serves to recall the history of the birth of the Council and to pay tribute to all past members who have contributed to the advancement of women during the past 43 years.
In her address, President Doreen Micallef, thanked the members for their commitment and hard work all on voluntary basis. She stressed the importance of being proactive, of adapting to the changing needs of society. It is up to us women, now to grasp all the opportunities available for growth and development. She asked members to involve themselves in the Council’s activities and participate in the various committees and programmes, to the level they feel competent and have time for.
On this memorable occasion, Mrs Josephine Amato Gauci was awarded Honorary Presidency “for her commitment during the early years of the Council, as one of the Founder Members and its first President, a time when the lack of legislation and awareness of the need for cultural change were great obstacles in addressing women’s issues and gender equality”
Mrs Amato Gauci warmly thanked the Council and expressed her conviction that NCW will continue with its achievements. She recalled the work done in the beginning of this important organization and the dedication of the women involved.
Present at this function were The Noble Bice Testaferrata Moroni Viani, Honorary President Jane Spiteri and Dame Blanche Martin who together with Josephine Amato Gauci contributed to the success of NCW’s early years.It was noted that the Council is always moving with the times attracting young women and using their talents for the benefit of society.
MEN AND GENDER EQUALITY IN EUROPE
Over 200 people participated in a Conference on “Men and Gender Equality in Europe” organized by the European Movement International (EMI) held at the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) in Brussels on the 25 January 2007
In his introduction, Pat Cox, President of EMI stated that gender equality is central to the achievement of the European Union goals. The concept of gender equality is no longer being seen as an isolated women’s issue but in a more inclusive perspective that recognizes the role of men as driving force towards gender equality.
Commissioner for Employment and Social Affairs, Vladimir Spidla emphasized the commitment of the EU towards the promotion of equal opportunities. He referred to the Roadmap for Equality between women and men 2006-200 which reflects the EU goals for the achievement of full equality as a fundamental value of the Treaty of the Constitution. EESC, SOC President, Brenda King spoke about gender equality in professional and political life in Europe and the risk of poverty among women in the EU.
Panel presentations of studies carried out included ‘Work, Public Life and the Family – Women and Men in five European Contexts; ‘Adoption of Working Hours Laws’; Gender Equality and the Role of Men; ‘Rethinking the Role of Women and Men in society ; ‘Mass media and the redistribution of power’; Gender Policies and Actions in the EU programmes 2007-2013’; ‘Equal Distribution of Care Tasks and Support for Reconciliation between Private life and Professional and Political life in Europe’ and a Presentation of a good practice in private life from Italy “Team Game”
A number of issues raised addressed men’s needs and the importance of fathers in playing an active part in the life of their children. Changing stereotypes of men particularly as portrayed in the media both in men’s and women’s magazines and obstacles for fathers in using parental leave, including social disapproval and fear of compromising career were also brought forward. Participants felt that men’s health issues including the lower life expectancy rate require further study
A Charter of Intent on Gender Equality was launched in which the signatories committed themselves to work for an equal and active European citizenship in everyday life and at the workplace. NCW was represented by Vice-President Grace Attard who is also EESC member.
NATIONAL COMMISSION FOR THE PROMOTION OF EQUALITY 3RD ANNUAL CONFERENCE
The NCPE 3rd Annual Conference was a showcase of the sterling work carried out during 2006. In the keynote speech, Minster Cristina praised the work of the Commission in particular for its efforts to address discrimination at the workplace. Minister Cristina acknowledged the strong values of the Maltese society but emphasized that we have to be careful that traditional mentalities do not become obstacles to the advancement of women
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Dr Janet Mifsud, Commissioner highlighted the need for more awareness raising of discrimination by all stakeholders and social partners. She identified the increased number of projects together with more research work aimed at encouraging good practice as the highlights of 2006. Work on analyzing and strengthening equality legislation is in progress. Mainstreaming gender in other areas such as transport, the environment and health among other are priorities for 2007
Executive Director, Sina Bugeja made a detailed presentation of the annual report highlighting the vast amount of work carried out by the Commission. Besides projects, training, research and participation in the media including discussion programmes. But perhaps the most important aspect of the Commission’s duty was dealing with complaints on discrimination particularly at the workplace.
During the second part of the conference participants took part in three workshops: Becoming gender sensitive; gender mainstreaming and 2007 – Year of Equal Opportunities for All. The conference was another successful event, in particular with the active contribution of the participants in the workshops, especially through the proposals made.
Details can be viewed on http://www.equality.gov.mt
ADDRESSING GENDER EQUALITY FROM MEN’S PERSPECTIVE
One of the most important resolutions discussed and approved at the AGM January 2007 was the role of men in the promotion of gender equality. The evolving process of gender equality involves both men and women. Raising awareness of the ‘partnership’ concept in households where both parents work is becoming more widespread. However addressing gender equality from men’s perspective is essential as men have much to give and to gain from gender equality policies
NCW recommends that
• the National Curricula and Lifelong Learning initiatives include programmes with the aim of producing strategies and practical measures that address the contribution of both parents to family responsibilities
• research is carried out on the perception, attitudes and behaviour of men regarding gender equality to be able to address the needs of women and men in the formulation of policies
• current courses for couples preparing for marriage to include men’s perspective on gender equality in the home, at the workplace and in society at large
• training for parents to create awareness of meaningful ‘relationships’ of gender equality as role models and the importance of their role in bringing up boys and girls as equal partners in their daily life and
• carry out studies on stereotyping of men and women in the media with a view to understand better the pressures resulting from the representation of men and women in magazines, television and internet amongst others.
WOMEN IN LOCAL COUNCIL ELECTIONS
In spite of the fact that the number of women in Local Councils is still low, their contribution to their locality has made a marked difference. NCW knows that they will serve as role models for women who are standing for elections on the 10 March 2007. Overcoming obstacles such as coping with family needs and with long hours of work for the locality is not easy. NCW supports all women candidates and appreciates their determination and commitment and is sure that the local people will express their support by voting for women with more trust this time round.
A WELCOME INITIATIVE – AFTER SCHOOL CHILDCARE SERVICES
NCW is pleased to note government’s commitment to family-friendly measures and the recent statement by Minister Cristina that plans to open childcare centres in state schools are underway. The implementation of after school programmes on the school premises providing a holistic and creative learning environment for children between 5 and 14 will definitely make it possible for men and women to extend their working hours if necessary, with the assurance that their children are in a secure and stimulating environment.
In one of its resolutions for 2005, NCW had proposed that after school services should include extra-curricular activities in a number of areas such as drama and sports among others. They could also offer assistance with homework and new methods to foster a love for reading, creative writing and develop creativity of children in areas including art, music and thinking skills. The services of retired individuals and others who have
expertise in educational and traditional skills can be utilized in line with the policy of active elderly
NCW MARKS INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY
• On Thursday 1st March an NCW delegation led by President Doreen Micallef will be meeting the Prime Minister Dr. Lawrence Gonzi to present reports on various initiatives carried out by the Council in 2006. The President will also be submitting the Resolutions approved during the AGM 2007 together with plans for the coming year.
• On Friday 9th March, NCW in conjunction with the Austrian Embassy will be organizing a seminar entitled “Women in Diplomacy”
• On Saturday 10th March at 09.00am, H.E. Archbishop Paul Cremona will visit NCW Centre in Blata L-Bajda. Members of the National Council of Women, NCW Affiliated Organisations and members of the public are invited to meet the Archbishop on this special occasion
• Another initiative by the Council is that of finalising a study on “Obstacles on Women in Decision Making” under the UNESCO programmes in collaboration with the National Statistic Office. The first results will be published in the media in the next few days as part of NCW’s initiatives to mark the International Women’s Day
FORHTCOMING EVENTS
CYNTHIA TURNER WORKSHOP – PIANO WORKS FOR BICE MIZZI COMPETITION
Cynthia Turner will give a class on piano works performed for the Bice Mizzi competition on Wednesday 14th March at 5.00pm at 94 Nazju Ellul Street Gzira.
Those interested are to register at the National Council of Women on tel. 21248881/21246982 or send an email to ncwmalta@camline.net.mt
PASSOVER MEAL
The popular Passover Meal will once again be held at the National Council of Women Centre on Wednesday 28th March 2007 at 19.00 hrs. Spiritual Director Father Martin Mamo Price Lm5.90 .
HALF-DAY OF RECOLLECTION AND MASS
The Half-day of recollection and Mass will be held at the National Council of Women on Wednesday 4th April 2007 at 9.30 am Spiritual Director Mgr. Lawrence Gatt
For more information please phone NCW Office on 21248881/21246982 or send an email to ncwmalta@camline.net.mt
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