EU Chief Ursula von der Leyen's Drive for Gender Parity in Commission

European Union chief Ursula von der Leyen is determined to achieve gender parity in her executive Commission amid resistance from member states. She is advocating for a balanced representation of men and women among EU commissioners. Despite legal limitations, von der Leyen's efforts highlight the ongoing struggle for gender equality within the political framework of the EU.

European Union chief Ursula von der Leyen announced on Wednesday her unwavering commitment to achieving gender parity within her executive Commission. Despite resistance from several of the 27 member states, she is determined to see a balanced representation of men and women running the day-to-day affairs of the EU.

The German politician is currently setting up her team for a second five-year mandate and has been pressuring national capitals to provide her with candidates that would allow for gender balance. In her first term, she managed to achieve near gender parity among EU commissioners.

Von der Leyen emphasized her lifelong dedication to fighting for women's access to decision-making and leadership positions. She has sent a letter to member states insisting on receiving both male and female candidates, even though she lacks the legal authority to enforce this constraint. Her efforts are seen as progressive strides in a political landscape that still predominantly favors men.

(With inputs from agencies.)