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GEP Gender Equality Plan

Gender Equality Plan (GEP)

Vereniging Samen Leven
Valid from: [2025]

Introduction

At Vereniging Samen Leven, we recognize the importance of gender equality as a fundamental value of the European Union and as a critical factor in fostering inclusive, sustainable, and equitable societies. Our commitment to gender equality is deeply aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 5: Gender Equality) and the broader goals of diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity for all.

This Gender Equality Plan (GEP) outlines our institutional commitment to advancing gender equality within our organization, activities, and the broader community. It serves as a guiding framework for creating and maintaining an inclusive environment that promotes equal opportunities for all genders, combats gender discrimination, and addresses systemic barriers to gender equality.

Key Objectives

  1. Promote gender equality within our organization: Ensure balanced gender representation at all levels of decision-making and in all activities.
  2. Foster an inclusive work environment: Create a culture where all genders feel valued, respected, and supported.
  3. Address gender biases: Actively identify and eliminate gender-based biases and inequalities in our policies, procedures, and activities.
  4. Engage in community-focused gender equality initiatives: Incorporate gender equality into our projects and activities to empower women, men, and gender-diverse individuals in the community.
  5. Align with EU and global standards: Implement and sustain practices that align with European Union requirements and SDG 5 (Gender Equality).

Action Plan

1. Organizational Culture and Leadership

  • Ensure all members of the management team commit to gender equality and lead by example.
  • Raise awareness about gender equality among all staff, volunteers, and partners through training and workshops.
  • Implement gender-sensitive language and practices in all internal and external communications.

2. Recruitment and Representation

  • Strive for gender balance in the recruitment process by ensuring equal opportunities for all genders.
  • Actively work toward achieving gender parity in leadership and decision-making roles.
  • Monitor and evaluate gender distribution among staff, volunteers, and participants in activities.

3. Work-Life Balance and Inclusion

  • Promote work-life balance through flexible working arrangements and respect for personal and family commitments.
  • Ensure inclusive and family-friendly policies to support members and volunteers with caregiving responsibilities.
  • Address and prevent sexual harassment and gender-based violence by implementing clear reporting mechanisms and support systems.

4. Gender Equality in Activities and Projects

  • Design and implement projects and activities that actively promote gender equality in the community.
  • Ensure gender representation in project participation and leadership roles.
  • Assess and address gender-specific needs and challenges in community programs, such as sport activities, youth programs, and elderly care initiatives.

5. Monitoring and Evaluation

  • Establish measurable indicators to monitor progress toward gender equality.
  • Conduct annual reviews to evaluate the effectiveness of the GEP and update it as needed.
  • Publish an annual report highlighting achievements and areas for improvement.

Implementation and Accountability

  • A Gender Equality Officer will be appointed to oversee the implementation and monitoring of the GEP.
  • The Board of Vereniging Samen Leven will review progress bi-annually and ensure accountability.
  • All members, staff, and volunteers are expected to uphold the principles of this plan and contribute to its success.

Conclusion

This Gender Equality Plan reflects our commitment to building a fair, equitable, and inclusive organization that promotes gender equality at all levels. By fostering gender balance and inclusivity, Vereniging Samen Leven aims to contribute meaningfully to a more equal and just society, in alignment with EU values and global goals.

Approved by:
Vereniging Samen Leven
Date: [2025]