Enacted Gender Equality Law: a stronger framework for equal rights, equal opportunities, and more responsible institutions

The law more precisely regulates the obligations of public authorities, local governments, and other entities in the field of gender equality, including impact assessments of regulations and public policies on gender equality, gender-responsive budgeting, collection of gender-disaggregated data, and appointment of officials and contact persons for gender equality. It aims to remove practical barriers that can lead to inequality and to strengthen institutional accountability to ensure equal treatment and protection against discrimination based on legal provisions. A key innovation is the establishment of the Gender Equality Agency, which will have expert, coordinating, and advisory roles in monitoring, providing recommendations, conducting analyses, capacity building, and supporting the implementation of laws and policies in this area. The law also enhances protection against discrimination and promotes equal treatment in employment, wages, professional development, social protection, pregnancy, maternity, parental and adoptive leave, and dignity in all areas of public and private life. It aligns with relevant EU directives on equal treatment of women and men, including employment, self-employment, social protection, protection of pregnant women, mothers, and parents, as well as access to rights, resources, and services. The Ministry of Human and Minority Rights will work with institutions, local governments, international partners, and civil society organizations to create conditions for the full and effective implementation of the Gender Equality Law.