The program for baby-sitting areas within businesses was discussed at the meeting held today by the Minister of Social Cohesion and Family, Sofia Zacharaki, and Deputy Minister Maria Kefala, with the President of the Athens Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Sofia Kounenaki – Efraimoglou.

The program is implemented for the first time in our country and aims to harmonize family and professional life and empower women in the labor market.

In this context, the possible extension of the program was proposed by the president of EBEA, so that clusters of smaller businesses are also covered.

The agenda of the discussion also included the strengthening of the “Housing and Work” program, through the mobilization of EBEA members to provide work to people who are experiencing homelessness.

Afterwards, the president of EBEA expressed the intention of the chamber to strengthen female entrepreneurship through the creation of a brand for businesses owned and managed by women. In addition, he presented a proposal from the chamber community for the expansion of the State’s support network regarding maternity benefits to women who are self-employed.

Finally, Ms. Efraimoglou informed Ms. Zacharakis and Ms. Kefala about the women’s entrepreneurship support programs implemented by EBEA and EEDEGE, such as the program to support innovative, all-female, start-up businesses.

On the occasion of the meeting, Ms. Efraimoglou stated: “With the minister, Ms. Sofia Zaharakis, and the deputy minister, Ms. Maria Kefala, we discussed actions and policies aimed at strengthening the position of women and our vulnerable fellow citizens in economic and social life.

Programs as innovative as the creation of babysitting spaces in companies, which we have mentioned at length, are modern policies with benefits, both for employees and for companies that promote the empowerment of women. Both EBEA and EEDGE will be at the ministry’s side to promote policies for gender equality and the reduction of social inequalities.”