In their report, adopted by 458 votes in favour, 72 votes against, and 98 abstentions, MEPs say jobs in women-dominated sectors are generally lower paid and undervalued, despite younger women increasingly outperforming younger men in education. Improving the labour market participation and working conditions of women could, they argue, help address skills and labour shortages and improve the EU’s productivity and growth.

Eradicating the gender pay and pension gaps

Parliament wants the Commission to present an action plan to eradicate the gender pay and pension gaps. The action plan should include targeted measures to improve working conditions and fair pay in women-dominated sectors. It should prioritise investment under the next EU long-term budget to strengthen women’s work-life balance and provide for a reliable care sector.

Women are responsible for a disproportionate share of unpaid care and domestic work. This reduces their labour market participation and pension accrual…