PM Shmyhal vows to combat gender discrimination at enterprises

Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal says there is still discriminatory attitude in Ukraine toward female workers at enterprises, which requires serious elaboration.

The head of Cabinet made the comment during a speech at the IV Ukrainian Women's Congress, as reported by an UNIAN correspondent on November 25.

Read alsoUkraine's government set to narrow gender pay gapSpeaking about equal opportunities for women and men on the labor market, PM said: "If rights and responsibilities of women and men are legally equal, their equal opportunities still require serious elaboration. Unfortunately, in our society, there is still discrimination in how employers treat their employees. The Social Policy Ministry notes that this leads to a gap of about 25% in wages."

According to Shmyhal, the reasons include "bias, designation of 'male' and 'female' professions, maternity leaves, age, appearance, and even character."

"This prevents all Ukrainians from becoming richer and more successful," he added.

The prime minister says it has been repeatedly proven that the expansion of rights and opportunities, achievement of equal rights for women and men has a significant positive impact in all areas, as well as contributes to the country's economic growth.

Meanwhile, over the past year, Ukraine climbed sixth positions in the Global Gender Gap Report, taking a 59th spot.

"Experts analyzed 153 countries, taking into account national statistics, achievements and opportunities of men and women in terms of economic participation, career prospects, political rights, health, and even life expectancy and education. This is a very good pace for Ukraine and it won't halt because our society won't stop in its aspirations and goals," he summed up.