Dismantling gender stereotypes in the EU
The report Perception to policy: Dismantling gender stereotypes in the European Union, published by the European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE), examines how gender stereotypes are still deeply rooted across the EU. As a consequence, they continue to shape how women and men see themselves and each other, as well as the design of public services and policies, despite growing awareness and progress.
Drawing on data from EU Member States, the publication shows how stereotypes hold back progress towards gender equality across domains highlighted by the Gender Equality Index, such as paid work, access to financial resources, education, unpaid care, health, power and decision-making, and gender-based violence.
Stereotypes underpinning inequality at work remain widespread, particularly among women. These include the persistent view of men as primary earners and women as financially dependent, undermining women’s income, financial autonomy and career ambitions.
The report also highlights the strong feminisation of caregiving and the endurance of norms tying masculinity to power and control. As a result, controlling behaviour is still frequently excused by many young men and accepted by some young women.
To counter these patterns, the publication sets out policy pointers to challenge stereotypes across sectors – from public campaigns and updates to educational materials and public discourse, to targeted policy development backed by adequate funding.