Historical, practical and strategic tool: Kateryna Levchenko explained the significance of the Gender Equality Index calculated in Ukraine
Ukraine recently calculated its first-ever Gender Equality Index – an important strategic and practical tool to bring the country closer to European Union standards. This was announced by Kateryna Levchenko, Government Commissioner for Gender Policy, during a briefing at the Media Center Ukraine.
“This document, made possible by joint efforts, is of enormous strategic importance. It shows that Ukraine is serious about joining the EU. For us, it is proof that we are not just politically declaring our European integration course, but that as a state and a nation we are beginning to implement EU standards in various sectors. We are adopting tools used in EU member states to ensure human rights, measure their fulfillment, and set standards that help people live better lives. What we are doing on the road to EU membership is precisely to make life better for Ukrainian citizens than it is now. And the Gender Equality Index is one such tool,” Levchenko said.
According to her, the Index is not only strategically important, but also provides an objective assessment of the country’s progress in ensuring equal rights and opportunities for women and men.
“It is also undoubtedly of great practical value because it helps us to identify gaps in gender equality. It allows us to understand how Ukraine is perceived in comparison to other EU member states. So for us it is a very important practical tool,” the Government Commissioner emphasized.
Kateryna Levchenko also emphasized the historical significance of the launch of this mechanism:
“The launch of this index is also a historical milestone, as it is the first time it is calculated in Ukraine. We very much hope that it will be institutionalized,” she concluded.
Read more: https://mediacenter.org.ua/news