Brussels, 04/07/2012 (Agence Europe) - Morocco and the EU, represented by Ambassador to the country Eneko Landaburu, signed an agreement on Tuesday 3 July to finance the support programme for implementation of the government gender equality plan. European assistance of €45 million will be provided over 48 months: €38 million will be for budget support, €2 million for subsidies to civil society and €5 million for technical cooperation (mainly improving the capacity of ministries).
The programme aims to improve conditions of the promotion of gender equality and equity, ensure “better legal protection for women” and enhance their representation in decision-making (both political and administrative).
It also aims to develop a culture of equality (to counter gender-based stereotypes presented in the media, for example,) and to “develop sectoral policies and programmes that contribute to gender equality”. A further objective is to build up the Ministry of Solidarity, Women, Family and Social Development so that it can successfully direct the strategy.
Speaking to the press, Landaburu said that “promoting equality between men and women is a political priority” the EU shares with the Moroccan government which, through its plan, has made a clear commitment to equality. (FB/transl.rt)