The universal application of the Equality Mark in businesses was decided by the Ministry of Social Cohesion and Family after the successful pilot application of the “SHARE” program in 2022.

Businesses that implement policies of equal treatment and equal opportunities between female and male employees, as well as policies to prevent and combat violence and harassment at work, can receive an Equality Mark from the General Secretariat for Equality and Human Rights of the Ministry of Social Cohesion and Family.

By decision of the Deputy Minister of Social Cohesion and Family, Maria-Alexandras Kefala, the conditions, the awarding process and the duration of validity of the Equality Mark for small, medium and large enterprises are determined.

Specifically, as the decision states, companies participating in the Equality Mark program must promote the principle of equality in every process of recruitment or promotion and determination of remuneration, ensure equal access as well as the same opportunities for professional training and in general to apply the principle of equality to the working conditions provided. They must also take initiatives to balance personal and professional life, comply with legislation to protect parenthood and implement policies and measures to prevent and address violence and harassment in the workplace.

The Equality Mark lasts for two years and can be renewed at the request of the business concerned, while it can be used in any publicity action deemed appropriate by the business.

Mrs. Kefala, on the occasion of the decision in question, said: “With the Equality Mark we are “building” a new mindset of mutual respect and equality because everyone is entitled to equal opportunities and equal treatment in the workplace as well. We urge companies operating in our country to develop policies to address stereotypical gender roles and create a friendly working environment for both women and men, as in these cases the benefits are multiple for both women/men employees as well as for the companies themselves”.

For her part, the general secretary of Equality and Human Rights, Zefi Dimadama, emphasized that “the goal of our ministry and the program is not only the percentage increase of women, but at the same time the support of motherhood and the development possibilities of female human resources equally at the highest levels administrative positions”