Resumen de Women participation, quality of government and economic development in Europe, 2000-2007
María del Carmen Guisán Seijas, Eva Aguayo Lorenzo
We analyze women participation, in economic and social activities, in Europe, for the period 2000-2007, and the positive effects of education, quality of government and economic development on quality of life and female participation. We estimate some econometric models which have into account the positive impact of education in gender equality opportunities as well as the positive impact of gender equality on indicators of socio-economic well-being. In spite of some advancement in equality of opportunities for women in working activities, we find a marked stagnation of opportunities for highly prepared women in decision making and leadership, particularly in countries where voice of citizens do not find enough channels of communication with Government and where television, press media, and several social institutions, are under tight control of powerful political and business groups which show little concern about female equality of opportunities based on merit and capacity. We suggest policies addressed to increase equality of opportunities for women in European countries, particularly related with those problems denounced by the European Women´s Lobby about difficulties for female leaders to reach an even participation in decision making and media. This would help to advance in quality of life for all the society.
