Commissioner for Gender Equality Josie Christodoulou said this week that substantial equality between men and women in all areas of work is not only fair, but also necessary.

During a workshop on labour issues organised by the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Cyprus (Selk) in collaboration with the Ministry of Labour, only through full and effective participation of women in the workforce, she noted, can Cyprus strengthen social cohesion and accelerate development.

According to her, creating a fair and equal working environment is a shared responsibility, of the government, private sector, and every individual.

One that respects, recognises and makes use of each person’s value, ability and ambition.

In her opening remarks, Christodoulou referred to studies showing that companies perform better when women are involved in decision-making.

Equality in leadership, she said, drives efficiency, innovation and competitiveness, while also boosting financial results.

She also touched on workplace sexual harassment, calling it a silent threat that undermines employees’ dignity and safety — particularly for women.

Addressing it, she stressed, isn’t just a legal obligation. It’s a matter of culture and accountability.

It requires a zero-tolerance environment, with clear reporting mechanisms, protection for victims and serious consequences for perpetrators.

Christodoulou went on to outline actions under the National Strategy for Gender Equality, including the four-week extension of maternity leave for first-time mothers, the gradual rollout of compulsory preschool from age four, and the continued expansion of all-day school.

According to her, cooperation with the private sector is also underway.

Through specific recommendations, companies are being encouraged to embed gender equality across their operations, from policies to practices, aiming at a truly gender-neutral working environment.