Since the 11th Century women have been banned from Mount Athos and its monastery. Law No 2623 of 1953 enshrined that ban in law and laid down penalties to be applied in the event of non-compliance. The entire area has been designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, and it is common knowledge that cultural assets must be placed at the disposal of society. A whole series of legislative provisions exists at European Union level to combat gender-based discrimination, the most recent of which is the 2001-2006 action programme to combat discrimination.
Would the Commission not agree that this ban violates the individual rights of women and is in breach of Community legislation? Does it intend to take action to remedy this situation, given that Community funds are provided for the upkeep of Mount Athos?