Using EU trade deals to promote women’s rights
EU trade deals should include provisions to ensure respect for human rights, including gender equality, say MEPs in a resolution to be debated on Monday and put to a vote on Tuesday.
MEPs will urge the EU Commission and Council to promote and support the inclusion of a dedicated Gender Chapter in all future EU trade agreements. Today, only 20% of such agreements mention women’s rights, and only 40% include references designed to promote gender equality.
More specific measures to combat the exploitation of women and improve working and living conditions for those in export-oriented industries, such as garment and textile manufacturing or agriculture, are needed, MEPs believe.
Debate: Monday, 12 March
Vote: Tuesday, 13 March
Procedure: non-legislative resolution
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