Cyprus’ Commissioner for Gender Equality, Josie Christodoulou, represented the Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the European Union at three recent high‑level events in Brussels , focusing on gender equality, women’s economic empowerment and women’s role in peace and security.
At a meeting on the renewal of the EU’s Gender Action Plan for external relations, organized by the European Commission and the European External Action Service, Christodoulou said gender equality must be integrated across all areas of EU external policy — from diplomacy and development cooperation to humanitarian action, investment strategies and the green and digital transitions.
She stressed the need for women’s participation in leadership roles.
Speaking at an event co‑organized by UN Women, the Cypriot Presidency, the European Commission and the Belgian government, she said incorporating gender considerations into investment and supply‑chain strategies is not only a matter of fairness but also leads to stronger performance, better risk management and more resilient communities.
She noted that initiatives such as Team Europe and Global Gateway are advancing women’s empowerment through coordinated action by EU institutions, member states, the private sector and civil society.
At a session of the Working Group on Women, Peace and Security, co‑hosted by the EEAS and the Cypriot Presidency, Christodoulou said policies must deliver tangible results, particularly in regions affected by conflict.
She said Cyprus, acting as a humanitarian hub in the Eastern Mediterranean, serves as a bridge between the EU and neighboring regions and promotes gender‑responsive crisis management.
She added that Cyprus’ new National Action Plan, approved by the Cabinet, strengthens institutional gender mainstreaming, supports women’s leadership in security and diplomacy, and deepens cooperation with civil‑society organizations.