Gender equality

This issue contains 3 sections.

In the Netherlands, women’s participation in the labour force still lags behind that of men. Central government is encouraging greater labour force participation by women and girls but this is mainly a matter for individuals, companies and civil society organisations. Safety is also an issue that needs addressing: girls and women frequently experience violence and feel unsafe.

The government wants to combat stereotypical thinking about gender roles and male-female differences. It is also investing in action to make life safer for girls and women, not just in the Netherlands but around the world. 

Although it is seen as normal for women to work outside the home, the Netherlands is still a ‘one-and-a-half earner society’ in which many women work fewer hours than their husbands or partners.

Women frequently work only part-time and therefore earn too little to support themselves financially. Another problem is that too few women are currently promoted to top executive positions. The government wants women to work more hours and to be fully represented in all occupations and sectors, as well as at all levels. The labour market needs their talents.