The Council of Europe’s Gender Equality Commission (GEC) and Steering Committee on Anti-Discrimination, Diversity and Inclusion (CDADI) today publish their first ever joint statement. The statement underlines the fundamental importance of equality, gender equality, diversity and inclusion for the New Democratic Pact for Europe, which is the strategic initiative of the Council of Europe to make European democracies more resilient and adapted to the changing world.

Both committees underline that equality and equal participation form the backbone of democracy. Democracy can function legitimately and flourish only if all individuals, regardless of gender or any other ground of discrimination are able to participate safely in public life on an equal footing. Equality is a structural condition for democratic legitimacy.

Equality, gender equality, diversity and inclusion harness the full potential of society and benefit society as a whole, strengthening stability, trust, creativity and prosperity. They enhance economic growth, promote innovation, increase labour market participation and living standards and strengthen competitiveness and societal cohesion.

CDADI and GEC emphasise that placing the protection and advancement of equality, gender equality, diversity and inclusion at the heart of the New Democratic Pact for Europe is imperative for securing future-ready, peaceful, prosperous, sustainable, safe and trusted democracies.