This year’s International Women’s Day comes with a backdrop of political instability and threats to democracy. Women’s rights are facing new challenges across Europe and beyond. Discussions about women’s health and rights are gaining ground, especially with the European Commission considering a new Gender Equality Strategy for 2026–2030. While this is a step forward, mere acknowledgment isn’t enough. The need for action is urgent.
Women often deal with inequalities that stem from being underrepresented in medical studies and facing biases in diagnosis and treatment. This disparity is worsened by a lack of attention to gender-sensitive healthcare. Alarmingly, nearly one in three women in the EU report experiencing physical or sexual violence, highlighting a persistent health crisis amid discussions about withdrawing from important agreements like the Istanbul Convention.
Insights from various experts and those with lived experiences show that women’s health reflects broader societal issues. It affects workforce participation and public trust, impacting overall social stability. Although there have been advancements, the gap between promises made and everyday realities remains vast.
With human rights under increasing pressure, promoting women’s health is crucial for maintaining democratic values. The publication “Divergence in Diversity” underscores an impending rise in gender inequality. It emphasizes that diversity should not lead to unequal healthcare access. This year’s message is clear: the EU needs a dedicated Women’s Health Strategy by 2029.
For more insights, you can read the full compendium here.
Elizabeth Kuiper, Associate Director at the European Policy Center, emphasizes the importance of these discussions as integral to societal health and resilience.
