Conclusions on Social Partners and Gender Equality in Europe

Abstract

In this concluding chapter, we discuss the findings of the book chapters on three dimensions: (i) collective bargaining and gender equality, (ii) social partners’ influence on gender policy-making and framings of equality and (iii) gendered patterns of representation in trade unions. We demonstrate how discussing the three dimensions together provides a comprehensive approach for understanding the role of social partners in achieving gender equality. We also highlight themes and trends for future research. These include how shifts in corporatist dynamics affect gender equality, employers’ increasing and not always benevolent interest in gender equality, and the role of social partners in addressing the care crisis intensified by the Covid-19 pandemic.KeywordsCorporatismSocial partnersGender equalityTrade unionsEmployersCare work