2025 Gender Equality Index, published by the European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE) evaluates progress in key areas such as education, employment, health, income, decision-making, time use and care responsibilities. New indicators introduced in the 2025 edition take into account the effects of digital transformation, unequal care burdens and income disparities, providing a more precise evidence base for future policy action. While gradual improvements have been recorded over the past decade, the data shows that progress remains slow, with significant gaps persisting in financial autonomy, unpaid care work and access to leadership positions. With an EU score of 63.4 out of 100, projections suggest that achieving full gender equality would still take several decades at the current rate.

On 2 December, the European Parliament’s Committee on Women’s Rights and Gender Equality (FEMM) examined the findings of the 2025 Gender Equality Index. The meeting brought together Members of the European Parliament and the European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE). 

Particular concern was raised about women’s representation in positions of influence within sport, where the level of female participation in top decision-making bodies of major national Olympic sport organisations remains especially low compared to other sectors. Committee members highlighted the urgent need to fully apply existing EU legislation, integrate gender perspectives across all policy areas and tackle structural inequalities in the labour market, care systems and digital participation. ENGSO believes that efforts to strengthen women’s leadership in sport should continue to be supported through EU-funded initiatives.

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