Strategic Action Plan on Gender Equality 2014-2017

1.1.1. Consultation with Government Ministry of Justice and Public 1 half of 2014 Number of meetings Departments, Equality Bodies, NGOs Order (Equality Unit) etc for the preparation of a Strategic Action Plan on Gender Equality 2014-2017 nd

1.1.2. Preparation of the draft Strategic Ministry of Justice and Public 2 half 2014 2950€ Draft Strategic Action Plan on Gender Action Plan on Gender Equality Order (Equality Unit) in Equality 2014-2017 2014-2017 cooperation with the Implementing Body nd

1.1.3. Approval of the Plan by the Council Ministry of Justice and Public 2 half of 2014 Strategic Action Plan on Gender of Ministers Order (Equality Unit) Equality 2014-2017

1.1.4. Interim submission of Information to Law Commissioner March 2015 Submission of report to CEDAW on the Committee on the Elimination of Ministry of Justice and Public the National Machinery Discrimination against Women Order (Equality Unit) Machinery for Women’s Rights and on (CEDAW), on the National Machinery combating Trafficking in Human for Women’s Rights and on Equality Commissioner Beings combating Trafficking in Human Ministry of Interior Beings th

1.1.5 Preparation of the 8 Periodic Report Law Commissioner March 2017 8the Periodic Report to CEDAW on the implementation of the UN Ministry of Justice and Public 8 Convention on the Elimination of all Order (Equality Unit),in Forms of Discrimination against cooperation with all Ministries Women and other agencies/NGOs (CEDAW)

1.1.6. Preparation of the Monitoring Report Ministry of Justice and Public December 2014 €2000 Report on the Implementation of the on the Implementation of the Equal Order (Equality Unit), Equal Treatment of Men and Women Treatment of Women and Men In cooperation with an Law of 2008 (access to and supply of Goods and implementing agency Services) Law of 2008 and its submission to the European Commission Interim Objective 2 Strengthening – Restructuring of the National Machinery for Women’s Rights Actions Implementing Agency Implementation Time Costing Monitoring Indicators Ministry/ Department/Service

1.2.1 Consultation with Women’s Minister of Justice and Public Number of officers in the National Organisations (NGOs) Government Order (Equality Unit) Machinery for Women’s Rights, Services/Departments and equality Budget of the National Machinery for agencies Women’s Rights. Number of consultations

1.2.2 Preparation of Report /proposal for Ministry of Justice and Public Report /proposal for the restructuring the restructuring of the National Order (Equality Unit) National Machinery for Women’s Machinery for Women’s Rights. Rights 9

1.2.3 Appointment of a Gender Equality President of the Republic March 2014 Commissioner Council of Ministers Appointment of the Gender Equality July 2014 Commissioner as Chairwoman of the NMWR Interim Objective 3: Training of Public Officers on Gender Mainstreaming Actions Implementing Agency Implementation Time Costing Monitoring Indicators Ministry/Department/ Service

1.3.1. Preparation of an Action Plan for the Cyprus Academy of Public 2014-2017 Action Plan for the training of Public training of public officers on Gender Administration and Equality Officers Mainstreaming Unit/Ministry of Justice and Public Order, in cooperation with: The . Office of the Commissioner for Administration and Human Rights Gender Equality Committee in Employment and Vocational Training and Experts

1.3.2. Establishment of a steering group for Cyprus Academy of Public 2014 Coordinating Group monitoring the implementation of the Administration in cooperation with above Action Plan the competent Ministries

1.3.3 Educational programs for all levels of Cyprus Academy of Public 2014-2017 Number of Training Programmes government officials and especially of Administration, in cooperation with Number of participants in the training competent officers who prepare and the competent Ministries programmes implement the State budget and the strategic development plans on 10 gender mainstreaming and gender budgeting questions

1.3.4 Training, awareness raising / Cyprus Academy of Public 2014-17 Number of Participants trained education of public officers, including Administration, in cooperation with Evaluation of the attitudes and prosecutors, judges and lawyers the competent Ministries perceptions of participants before and after the training Interim Objective 4: Revision of regulations on the subsidization of actions for the promotion of equality Actions Implementing Agency Implementation Time Costing Monitoring Indicators Ministry/Department/ Service

1.4.1 Preparation of draft revised Ministry of Justice and Public 2014 Draft of revised regulations regulations (for annual subsidies or Order (Equality Unit) subsidies following applications) Equality Commissioner

1.4.2 Approval of draft regulations by the Ministry of Justice and Public 2014 Draft Regulations Council of Ministers Order (Equality Unit) Interim Objective 5: Effective coordination of Equality Bodies Actions Implementing Agency Implementation Time Costing Monitoring Indicators Ministry/Department/ Service

1.5.1 Consultation of the Minister of Justice Minister of Justice and Public 2014-2017 and Public Order with : Order -the Minister of Labour, Welfare and Social Insurance -the Commissioner for Administration Number of meetings and Human Rights -the Gender Equality Commissioner -the Chairperson of the Gender 11 Equality Committee in Employment and Vocational Training -Μembers of the Parliamentary Committee on Human Rights and Equal Opportunities for Men and Women

1.5.2. Consultation of the Gender Equality Gender Equality Commissioner 2015-2017 Commissioner with NGOs NMWR

1.5.3 Consultation in the framework of the Minister of Justice and Public 2014-2017 Number of Meetings Ministerial Committee on Equality Order between Women and Men Interim Objective 6: Promotion of Best Practices Actions Implementing Agency Implementation Time Costing Monitoring Indicators Ministry/Department/ Service

1.6.1 Monitoring and Rewarding Best Gender Equality Commissioner 2015-2017 Practices promoting gender equality NMWR NGOs 12 Objective 2: Upgrading / Improving the Legislative Framework According to the Concluding Observations of the CEDAW Committee, Cyprus has made great progress in the area of legislative reform for Gender Equality and has ratified several international conventions relating to equality and human rights. 2. However, the implementation of the relevant laws comes up against obstacles on many levels. Indicatively, it is mentioned that the independent bodies / Equality Committees and the courts are underused in claiming women's rights where there is a violation. Moreover, legal and law enforcement officers appear to be inadequately trained on gender legislation and especially on the provisions of the UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women. 3. At the same time, the European Strategy for Gender Equality 2010-2015 recommends the adoption of more laws safeguarding equality and eliminating discrimination laws, which still exist. It is also mentioned that all the above will not be meaningful if there is no proper education and awareness-raising among the public and especially if there are no legal ways to monitor the implementation of the legal framework, enforce its implementation and regularly evaluate and update it. 4. Therefore, the provision of information and the sensitisation of women about their rights, including migrant women, disabled and other vulnerable groups of women, the facilitation of women victims’ access to legal mechanisms for hearing complaints, the provision of advice and the elimination of all barriers to women’s accessibility to the justice system and the establishment of training programs for prosecutors, judges and lawyers should receive special attention. 5. At the same time, information on the relevant provisions of the law and continuous dialogue with all actors, social partners, equality bodies and representatives of civil society is crucial for promoting, implementing and asserting women's rights. 6. In the Concluding Observations of the CEDAW Committee, it is highlighted that, apart from the Government, the House of Representatives has a key role to play in promoting this goal. 7. Based on the above, the interim objectives set for Updating and Improving the Legal Framework are: 1) The amendment and adoption of laws relating to gender equality, 13 2) Education and information about laws and Equality 3) Education / training of public officials (see1.3 above). 14 Objective 2: Updating /Improving the Legislative Framework Interim Objective 1: Adoption and amendment of legislation on gender equality Implementing Agency Implementation Time Costing Monitoring Action Ministry/Department/ Indicators Service Υπηρεσία

2.1.1 Adoption of the Law on mediation in family Law Commissioner 2014 No cost matters Ministry of Justice and Public Order

2.1.2 Amendment of the Family Courts (Religious Law Commissioner 2016 Groups) Law Ministry of Justice and Number of laws Public Order adopted

2.1.3 Ministry of Labour, Welfare 2014-2015 No cost Number of laws Amendment of the law on Gender Equality in and Social Insurance amended Employment and Vocational Training Number of laws Gender Equality harmonised Committee in Employment and Vocational Training

2.1.4 Amendment of the Social Insurance Law Ministry of Labour, Welfare No cost (Elimination of discriminations on widow’s and Social Insurance/ pensions) Social Insurance Services st

2.1.5 Legislative amendments to eliminate Μinistry of Defence 1 half of 2015 discriminations against women working in the army, which exist in legislation falling in the competence of the Ministry of Defence (recruitment, advancement etc.)

2.1.6 Amendment of the Criminal Code to make Ministry of Justice and 2014-2015 stalking a criminal offence Public Order Commissioner for Human Rights Law Office 15

2.1.7 Other amendments of the Criminal Code so as Ministry of Justice 2014-2017 to comply with the Council of Europe and Public Order Convention on Preventing and Combating Law Office Violence against Women and Domestic Commissioner for Human Violence Rights

2.1.8 Adoption of the Cohabitation Pact Law Ministry of the Interior 2014-2015

2.1.9 Notice under the provisions of the Equal 2014-2015 €5000 Treatment of Men and Women (Access to and Ministry of Justice and Supply of Goods and Services ) Law 18 (I) / Public Order (Equality Unit) 2008 and the Provision of Independent Assistance to Victims of Discrimination Regulations of 2010 (KDP 483 / 2010) on the financing of non-governmental organisations with legal personality, in order to provide independent assistance to victims of sex discrimination

2.1.10 Study on the amendment of laws making Gender Equality 2015-2016 gender discrimination Commissioner NMWR Interim Objective 2: Education and information on Equality Legislation Implementing Agency Implementation Time Costing Monitoring Actions Ministry/Department/ Indicators Service

2.2.1 Dissemination of the Report on the CEDAW Ministry of Justice and 2014-2017 Convention Public Order (Equality Unit) Gender Equality 16 Commissioner

2.2.2 Translation and dissemination of the Ministry of Justice and 2014-2017 €1000 Concluding Observations of the CEDAW Public Order (Equality Unit) Number of Committee publications distributed

2.2.3 Education on the equality legislation Ministries 2014-2017 Gender Equality Commissioner Other Equality Bodies Number of NGOs publications/ Mass Media television and

2.2.4 Information Campaign on the existing bodies Ministries radio claiming women’s rights where there are Equality Authority of the programmes/ violations Commissioner for Press articles Administration and Human etc Rights Gender Equality Committee in Employment and Vocational Training Gender Equality Commissioner National Machinery for Women’s Rights Women’s/Trade Union organisations and other NGOs 17 Objective 3. Balanced participation in decision-making positions According to the European Strategy for Equality between Men and Women 2010-2015, while women in the European Union account for almost 50% of the workforce and 60% of university graduates, in decision-making only one in every four members of national parliaments and the Cabinet are women. Also, while it was found that there is a positive correlation between the existence of women in leadership positions and business performance, women represent only 1/10 of the boards of large companies and represent only 3% of board presidents. 2. According to the Concluding Observations of the CEDAW Committee, in Cyprus there is a need for measures to ensure the meaningful representation of women in all areas of economic, public and political life. Women are under-represented in the Government, Parliament, Community Councils, the Mayors’ office as well as in all decision-making positions. In particular, the participation of women in the House of Representatives is at 10.7%, with one woman chairing a Parliamentary Committee and at 17.9% in the Municipal Councils, while in the European Parliament one of six MEPs is a woman (16.6%). Moreover, in Cyprus there is no woman mayor, and there is only one female minister. 3. Notwithstanding the above findings, the appointment of women as Law Commissioner and Commissioner for Children’s Rights, Commissioner for Administration and Human Rights, Equality Commissioner, Commissioner for the Environment, Accountant- General of the Republic, Governor of the Central Bank, as well as three women judges in the Supreme Court is noted as positive developments. Also the appointment of women as Chairpersons of the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Commission for the Protection of Competition and the Board of the Natural Gas Public Company (DEFA) is noted. Women were also appointed as Chairpersons on the boards of the following semi-state organisations: Cyprus Standardisation Organisation, the Cyprus Sport Organisation, the Tenders Review Authority, the Tax Council and the Human Resources Development Authority, and Vice- Chairpersons in the Boards of the Cyprus Electricity Authority and the Board of Loan Commissioners. It is also noted that in the course of a public consultation of the Minister of Justice and Public Order with representatives of non-governmental organizations and political parties on the topic "Increasing women's participation in political and public life in view of the European elections of 2014" (December 2013) the question of adopting positive action measures, and particularly quotas was extensively discussed. 18 4. The low participation rates for women in decision-making positions in the political life of the country indicate the strong presence of elements of patriarchal society and gender stereotypes that exist in Cypriot society, the lack of substantive female support measures by the political parties, which continue to be dominated by men, and reduced representation of women in the media. One of the findings of the CEDAW Committee is that, while some political parties have introduced quotas to boost female participation, and despite the fact that the previous NAPGE 2007-2013 contained relevant provisions, it appears that no positive measures were supported by the Government and the civil society. 5. In this context, the CEDAW Committee proposes to update and raise the awareness of members of Parliament, government officials, political parties and generally the civil society on the need and importance of equal representation of women in the political life. 6. Furthermore, the Committee recommends: a) conducting, in cooperation with the media, awareness- raising campaigns on the importance of women's participation in decision-making positions in politics and b) taking all necessary measures to increase women's participation in decision-making positions in the public, political and economic life through concrete measures and actions on political appointments, elected offices, Boards of Directors of Companies and the Boards of semi-state organisations. 7. Based on the above, the interim objectives set for the effective promotion of equal participation of women in decision-making are to: 1) Support women candidates in political life (political appointments and elected offices) and 2) Provide equal visibility opportunities to men and women candidates. 19 Objective 3: Balanced Participation of Men and Women in Decision Making Positions (Political, public and economic life) Interim objective 1: Support of women candidates in the political life (political appointments and elected offices) Implementing Agency Implementation Costing Monitoring Indicators Actions Ministry/Department/ Time Service

3.1.1 Consultations with political parties, government Minister of Justice and Public 2014-2017 Number of officials and deputies for the introduction of positive Order meetings/contacts measures, including quotas for political Gender Equality Commissioner appointments and elected offices National Machinery for Women’s Rights

3.1.2. Study on the introduction of positive legislative Ministry of Justice and Public 2015-2017 €5000 Study measures (including quotas) Order (Equality Unit), in Legislation cooperation with the implementing agency

3.1.3. Study on linking state subsidy given to political Ministry of Justice and Public 2015-2017 €5000 Study parties with the proportion of women in the electoral Order (Equality Unit), in lists cooperation with the implementing agency

3.1.4 Public commitment of elected representatives to Nicosia Municipality Continuous action No cost promote a balanced participation of women and men

3.1.5 Balanced representation in taking up presidencies, Nicosia Municipality Every 5 years when No cost Recording of the number in the participation in committees and in the the Council changes of women appointment of representatives of the Municipal (2016) representatives and Council in the governing bodies of organisations chairpersons (such as the Nicosia Sewerage Board, the Nicosia Water Board, the Union of Cyprus Municipalities, etc.): 20 (a) Direct and written information to each newly elected Council (b) Relevant decision of the Municipal Council

3.1.6 Before the expiry of the term of office of the Nicosia Municipality 2015-2016 No cost Comparative numbers Municipal Council representations to made to per year political parties and the civil society calling for the Political Parties promotion of women candidates, in view of the upcoming elections

3.1.7. Promoting measures of positive action for the Committee of Elected Women in 2015-2017 participation and election of women in the municipal the Union of Cyprus elections Municipalities Interim Objective 2: Providing equal opportunities for projection to men and women candidates Implementing Agency Implementation Costing Monitoring indicators Actions Ministry/Department/ Time Service

3.2.1 Education campaigns for the promotion of women Ministry of Justice and Public 2014 -Number of campaigns candidates in view of the elections for the European Order / National Machinery for -Number of radio Parliament 2014 Women's Rights, programmes and radio Women's Organisations, Media, spots NGO’s -Number of women candidates

3.2.2 Contacts and consultations with the media and Ministry of Justice and Public 2015-2017 Percentage of women’s political parties for equal representation and equal Order (Equality Unit) participation in the mass opportunities for men and women in political and Gender Equality Commissioner media economic debates /National Machinery for Women's Rights, Media - Political parties 21

3.2.3 Creation of an Observatory and Data Bank for the Ministry of Justice and Public 2015-2017 €5000 Numbers recorded participation of women in positions of responsibility Order (Equality Unit), in in the political, economic, social and professional life cooperation with the implementing agency

3.2.4 Education Campaigns for the projection of women Ministry of Justice and Public 2016 Number of campaigns candidates in the municipal elections of 2016 Order (Equality Unit) Number of Gender Equality Commissioner radio/television / National Machinery for programmes and Women's Rights, Women’s advertising spots Organisations Number of candidates Mass Media compared with 2011

3.2.5 Research Program for inclusion of gender equality in Ministry of Justice and Public 2015-2016 Publication of the the policies of municipalities Order (Equality Unit), in Programme cooperation with the implementing agency 22 Objective 4: Eliminating/Combating /Tackling Violence against Women According to the Concluding Observations of the CEDAW Committee, Cyprus has exerted important efforts at legislative level to eradicate, combat and tackle domestic violence against women, through the conduct of a national research on the extent, the forms, frequency and effects of domestic violence as well as through training professionals from the Police in questions of violence against women. However, the Committee has expressed concern about the low number of investigations, prosecutions and convictions in cases of domestic violence and the low number of convictions observed concerning individuals involved in domestic violence and trafficking in human beings. It recommends that effective measures should be taken to investigate reports on the exercise of all forms of violence against women and prosecute and adequately punish the perpetrators. 2. Furthermore, the CEDAW Committee is concerned about the lack of information on the implementation of the National Action Plan on Prevention and Handling of Family Violence (2010-2013), the insufficient gender perspective and inadequate inclusion of migrant women and ethnic minorities in the State programmes and policies regarding domestic violence. CEDAW emphasises the lack of adequate support and protection to women victims of violence, given that in Cyprus there is only one shelter for victims of domestic violence and stresses the lack of data and information on the extent of other forms of violence. It recommends the granting of financial resources for the immediate implementation and monitoring of the National Action Plan on Prevention and Handling of Family Violence. 3. At the same time, the Committee has expressed concern about the question of trafficking and exploitation of persons and of prostitution and the exploitation of migrant women, as well as the insufficient enforcement of the regulatory framework and the lack of monitoring of private employment agencies, which are reportedly sometimes involved in trafficking networks. CEDAW notes with concern the negative repercussions of the new visa regime on migrant women coming from EU countries and underlines the absence of statistics on prostitution and the absence of research concerning all forms of violence against women. 4. Also it recommends the ratification of the Council of Europe Convention (CoE) on Preventing and Combating Violence against Women and Domestic Violence (known as the Istanbul Convention) and urges the Government to prepare a timetable for this purpose. 23 5. Based on the above, the interim objectives to effectively alleviate the problem of violence against women are the following: 1) Signing of the Convention of the Council of Europe (CoE) on Preventing and Combating Violence against Women and Domestic Violence. 2) Preparing a new National Action Plan for the Prevention and Combating of Violence in the Family. 3) Prevention of Violence against Women. 4) Protection-Support for victims and 5) Prevention-Prosecution. 24 Objective 4: Eliminating /Combating / Tackling Violence against Women Interim objective 1: Signing of the Convention of the Council of Europe (CoE) on Preventing and Combating Violence against Women and Domestic Violence Actions Implementing Agency Implementation Costing Monitoring Indicators Ministry/Department/ Time Service

4.1.1 Preparation of Report recording the Ministry of Justice and Public Order 2014 Report obligations arising from the Convention and its (Equality Unit / Technical Committee costing. on Equality) ο

4.1.2 Study of the Report of the Technical Ministerial Committee on Gender 2 half of 2014 Committee and taking a decision to sign/ratify Equality the Convention

4.1.3. Harmonisation of Ministries / services Ministry of Justice and Public Order Gradually, starting Number of legislative and involved with the provisions of the Convention from 2014 other measures -especially those that do not involve extra costs (e.g.amendment of laws) - regardless of Ministry of Labour, Welfare and the signature / ratification of the Convention Social Insurance Ministry of Interior Ministry of Education and Culture, Ministry of Health, Law Office Interim objective 2: Preparation of a new National Action Plan for the Prevention and Combating of Violence in the Family Action Implementing Agency Implement- Costing Monitoring Indicators Ministry/Department/ ation Time Service

4.2.1 Evaluation of the previous National Action Advisory Committee for the 2014 Publication of the Report Plan for the Prevention and Combating of Prevention and Handling of Domestic Violence in the Family (2010-2013) Violence

4.2.2 Consultation with the relevant departments Advisory Committee for the 2014 Number of Meetings and NGOs and preparation of the new Prevention and Handling of Domestic Preparation of the new National Action Plan for the Prevention and Violence National Action Plan Handling of Family Violence 25 Interim Objective 3: Prevention of violence against Women Actions Implementing Agency Implement- Costing Monitoring Indicators Ministry/Department/ ation Time Service

4.3.1 Educating professionals on the issue of Office of the Commissioner of 2014-2016 Co-funding from the Number of educational violence against women Administration and Human Rights / European Commission programmes Equality Authority, Cyprus Academy of Public Number of participants in Administration, the educational Advisory Committee for the programmes Prevention and Combating of Violence in the Family, Mediterranean Institute of Gender Studies

4.3.2. Organisation of 17 seminars for Public Office of the Commissioner of 15/03/14-01/11/15 188,503 (Total cost of the Number of seminars Service 'front line' officers who come into Administration and Human Rights / action 318,503, of which Number of participants contact with victims of gender violence for Equality Authority, 80% comes from Evaluation of attitudes information / awareness- raising and on the Cyprus Academy of Public resources of the European and perceptions of the handling of victims – developing ways of Administration Commission participants before and working with NGOs Advisory Committee for the after the training . Prevention and Combating of Violence in the Family, Mediterranean Institute of Gender Studies

4.3.3. Office of the Commissioner of Number of meetings and Education and awareness- raising of civil Administration and Human Rights in number of participating servants in sexual harassment issues in the cooperation with the Cyprus civil servants workplace Academy of Public Administration Gender Equality Committee in Employment and Vocational Training 26

4.3.4. Pancyprian campaign for information / Office of the Commissioner of Sept 2014- 130,000 (Total cost of Number of programmes, awareness- raising on violence against Administration and Human November 2015 action 318,503 of which press conferences, women through the mass media Rights/Equality Authority, 80% comes from sources publications and spots Mediterranean Institute of Gender of the European Studies Commission)

4.3.5 Seminars for education and awareness – Ministry of Education and Culture 2014-2017 Number of seminars raising of teachers at all levels on issues of Number of participants in violence against women, sex education and the seminars sexual abuse. Evaluation of attitudes and perceptions of the participants before and after the training.

4.3.6 Strengthening the program of health Department of Health (School Health Analytical Health education on issues of gender relations, Service), Ministry of Education and Education Programme sexual education, communication, conflict Culture resolution and sexual abuse

4.3.7 Introducing the subject of violence against Ministry of Education and Culture Curricula women, including violence in the family, in school curricula and cultivating attitudes and values and acquiring skills and behaviours aimed at zero tolerance of violence.

4.3.8. Conducting research on all forms of violence Advisory Committee on the Research against women and sexual harassment in the Prevention and Combating of workplace Violence in the Family

4.3.9. Creating a single Registry for statistical data Advisory Committee on the Prevention €20.000 initially Registry on all forms of violence against women and Combating of Violence in the Family in cooperation with: Commissioner of Administration and Human Rights 27 Ministry of Labour, Welfare and Social Insurance, Ministry of Education and Culture Law Office Association for the Prevention and Handling of Violence in the Family The Police The Statistical Service

4.3.10 Education and awareness- raising of the Ministry of the Interior Education campaigns public on the issue of trafficking in human Multidisciplinary Coordinating Group beings. for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings Interim Objective 4: Protection –Support of Victims Actions Implementing Agency Implent- ation Costing Monitoring Indicators Ministry/Department/ Time Service

4.4.1 Operation of a 24-hour telephone helpline Association for the Prevention and €6000 annually ( grant Implementation/ Handling of Violence in the Family from the National Operation Social Welfare Services Machinery for Women’s Ministry of Justice and Public Order Rights or the Social Welfare Services

4.4.2 Creating new shelters hosting women victims Association for the Prevention and May 2014- €60,000 annually Number of shelters. of violence (Nicosia, Paphos) Handling of Violence in the Family Shelter in Paphos Social Welfare Services

4.4.3 Monitoring the implementation of the protocol Ministry of Health / Group on Number of checks carried on the handling of rape victims at the Casualty Violence (Public Health) out 28 Departments of Hospitals on an island-wide basis.

4.4.4 Introduction and dissemination of the Sexual Office of the Commissioner of 2015-2016 No additional expenditure Code Harassment Code in the Public Service Administration and Human is required following public consultation with the Social Rights/Equality Authority Partners

4.4.5. Education and sensitisation of public officers Office of the Commissioner of Number of public officers on questions of sexual harassment in the Administration and Human Rights workplace /Equality Authority, Cyprus Academy of Public Administration, Gender Equality Committee in Employment and Vocational Training

4.4.6. Taking effective measures to implement the Ministry of Labour, Welfare and Number of visits for existing legislation in order to control the Social Insurance control purposes activities of private employment agencies with a view to preventing and combating the trafficking of migrant domestic workers

4.4.7. Reintegration programs for women- victims of Ministry of Labour, Welfare and Reintegration trafficking Social Insurance. Programmes Ministry of Interior, Structures for protection Provision of protection and support through Police, and support of refugee the operation of shelters NGOs shelters 29 Interim Οbjective 5: Suppression-Prosecution Actions Implementing Agency Implement- Costing Monitoring Indicators Ministry/Department/ ation Time Service

4.5.1 Effective investigation of cases, prosecution Police Recording of cases – and tougher sentencing in cases of violence Law Office information on the against women, sexual harassment and Commissioner of Administration and outcome trafficking of human beings Human Rights Ministry of Interior Ministry of Labour, Welfare and Social Insurance Supreme Court

4.5.2 Facilitation of victims' access to justice (with Ministry of Justice and Public Order Number of victims information, guidance, protection and legal Law Office supported assistance) Social Welfare Services Bar Association

4.5.3 Training / sensitisation of policemen about Police Academy Number of trainings the risk assessment of incidents of violence and treating victims of violence (interview techniques and taking statements) 30 Objective 5: Economic Empowerment of Women - Eradication of Poverty The economic empowerment of women and the eradication of poverty are priority issues, particularly in the present socio-economic situation, the effects of which are more pronounced for women who because of budget cuts are affected both in the workplace and the family. As the Statistical Portrait of Women in Cyprus (Cyprus, 2012) characteristically mentions, the rate of risk of poverty over time is higher for women than for men. 2. According to the Concluding Observations of the CEDAW Committee and the European Pact for Gender Equality 2011-2020, it is necessary to take measures aimed at eliminating the pay gap between the genders, as well as the fight against segregation between men and women in the labour market and the introduction of positive action measures for women in employment. With reference to the above issue, the CEDAW Committee expresses particular concern because the wage gap between men and women remains at 16.2%. 3. At the same time the CEDAW Committee expresses its concern for vulnerable groups of women (including women with disabilities and elderly people who were at risk of poverty even before the crisis), who are subject to multiple discrimination, especially with regard to their access to education, employment, health care and social services. Another issue about which the Commission is deeply concerned is the position of migrant women who are domestic workers, namely the absence of protective framework and control of their working conditions, who thus remain vulnerable to all kinds of exploitation. 4. In addition, the increase of female entrepreneurship, the reduction of unemployment and also the promotion of policy measures to reconcile work and family life are priorities, given that 61.7% of women are working, suffer budget cuts and are increasingly entrusted with the burden of childcare, the elderly and people with disabilities. Particularly it is noted that the economic problems faced by divorced women should be studied. The need for economic empowerment of women is intensified at a time when the unemployment rate for women stands at 16.6% 5. All the above are consistent with the development strategy of the European Union "Europe 2020" which in the fight against the crisis, has set a) the employment of 75% of the age group 20-64 and b) fighting poverty and social exclusion with the reduction by at least 20 million of the people who are or risk to find themselves in a state of poverty and social exclusion, as two of the five key 31 objectives to be achieved by 2020. To achieve the above objectives the European Commission has proposed the initiative "European Platform Against Poverty", which aims to ensure social and territorial cohesion, so as to widely spread the benefits of growth and jobs and people living in conditions of poverty and social exclusion may acquire the means of decent living so as to participate actively in society. 6. Based on the above, the intermediate objectives for economic empowerment of women and the fight against poverty are defined as follows: 1) Implementation of equal pay/combating the pay gap between men and women 2) Increase of female entrepreneurship 3) Support for vulnerable groups 4) Reduction of unemployment 5) Reconciliation of work and family and 6) Preparation and adoption of the Demographic Policy Plan 2014-2015. 32 Objective 5: Economic Empowerment of Women - Eradication of Poverty Interim objective 1: Implementing equal pay / combating pay gap between men and women Implementing Agency Implementation Costing Monitoring Indicators Actions Ministry/Department/ Time Service

5.1.1 Event for the European Equal Pay Day Ministry of Labour, Event (March 8) Welfare and Social Insurance

5.1.2 Conducting 1000 inspections for the Ministry of Labour, Number of Inspections enforcement of legislation on equal pay Welfare and Social between men and women Insurance

5.1.3 Resolving complaints about the violation of Ministry of Labour, Number of Complaints legislation on equal pay for men and women Welfare and Social Insurance

5.1.4 Creating a guide for trade unionists Ministry of Labour, Distribution of the Guide concerning the negotiation of collective Welfare and Social agreements Insurance

5.1.5 Training members of professional Ministry of Labour, Number of cadres trained associations and cadres of employer and Welfare and Social trade union organisations Insurance

5.1.6 Creating a guide, a manual and tools for job Ministry of Labour, Guide , manual and tools for assessment Welfare and Social job assessment Insurance

5.1.7 Providing advisory services to employers Ministry of Labour, Number of meetings with concerning the promotion of equal pay for Welfare and Social employers men and women Insurance Preparing a study 5.1.8recg Preparing a study recording positive Ministry of Labour, Study discrimination in favour of women and issues Welfare and Social Number of positive concerning the pay gap Insurance discriminations

5.1.9 Investigating the conditions for the mandatory Ministry of Labour, introduction of checks and reporting by Welfare and Social enterprises on remuneration Insurance 33

5.1.10 Education and awareness- raising through Ministry of Labour, Number of Interventions the media on the issue of equal pay between Welfare and Social women and men Insurance

5.1.11 Seminars/lectures to parents for the Ministry of Labour, Number of lectures to combating of occupational segregation by Welfare and Social parents gender Insurance Ministry of Education and Culture

5.1.12. Training of Vocational Guidance Counsellors Ministry of Labour, 2013-2015. Three-day training by an Welfare and Social outside trainer in • Gender and Occupational Options Insurance cooperation with officers of • Introduction of a gender perspective in the the Ministry of Labour Consultancy Process Ministry of Education and during the school year. • Professional Consultancy for the Culture gender dimension • Cultivating awareness of the restrictive role Pedagogical Institute and of gender and the stereotypes associated Implementing agency with it • Issuing of a Manual for teachers of Career Counselling on the conduct of activities relating to gender stereotypes and gender segregation of professions

5.1.13. Information and awareness- raising training Ministry of Labour, Number of actions and of primary and secondary education Welfare and Social participants teachers on gender issues and the fight Insurance against the division into "male" and "female" Ministry of Education and professions Culture • Issues of gender relations Pedagogical Institute • Gender Roles Implementing agency Stereotypes in relation to gender and occupations • Practical guidelines for the elimination of stereotypes 34 Interim objective 2: Increasing female entrepreneurship Implementing Agency Implementation Costing Monitoring Indicators Actions Ministry/Department/ Time Service

5.2.1 Female Entrepreneurship Programme Ministry of Energy, 2014-2015 Number of women Commerce, Industry and subsidised Tourism

5.2.2 Youth Entrepreneurship Programme Ministry of Energy, 2014-2015 Number of young women Commerce, Industry and subsidised Tourism

5.2.3 Training Programme Human Resources Percentage of women Development Authority participating in actions of the Human Resources Development Authority

5.2.4. Improving women entrepreneurship, Non-Governmental Number of young women especially of young women and encouraging Organisations participating in enterprises the creation of enterprises Interim objective 3: Support to vulnerable groups Implementing Agency Implementation Costing Monitoring Indicators Actions Ministry/Department/ Time Service

5.3.1 Implementation of the Project «Labour and Ministry of Labour, Implementation of the 35 Social Activation of persons belonging to Welfare and Social project vulnerable groups» through the Insurance Development of Social Skills and Other Welfare Services Activities

5.3.2 Conduct of research on the economic Ministry of Justice and €10000 Research implications of divorce on women Public Order (Equality Unit), in cooperation with the implementing agency

5.3.3 Operation of an Information and Support of Nicosia Multi-purpose Continuous There is a low cost Number of participants Migrants Centre (providing information and Municipal Centre for participants. The services especially to migrants who are funding of the offered social services, counselling, programs comes information, information about networking from the with migrant organisations and other non- sponsorship of the governmental organisations, information on Municipality, the volunteer participation in local actions for the state and integration of third country nationals etc) . individuals and EU

5.3.4 Lessons in Greek language, computer and Nicosia Multi-purpose Continuous programmes Number of participants English given to adult third- country Municipal Centre nationals , while babysitting facilities are offered

5.3.5 Orientation workshops for third country Nicosia Multi-purpose Continuous There is a low cost Number of participants nationals in the Cypriot reality with Municipal Centre for participants. The information about everyday life (such as funding of the housing, transport, communication, work, programs comes health services), government services, local from the government, institutions of the Republic and sponsorship of the 36 the European Union, their rights / obligations Municipality, the as citizens and permanent residents of third state and countries who live and work in Cyprus individuals and EU

5.3.6 Day care programs for senior citizens Nicosia Multi-purpose Continuous programmes Number of participants (including transportation to and from home, Municipal Centre food and participation in various creative activities in the Centre and outside it)

5.3.7 Ensuring compliance with the principles of Nicosia Municipality Continuous List of interventions made non-discrimination in public buildings (e.g. ramps for wheelchairs and baby carriages, wide corridors, toilets etc.)

5.3.8 Ensuring compliance with the principles of Nicosia Municipality Continuous Number of projects carried non-discrimination in areas under out redevelopment (e.g. creation of sidewalks, walkways accessible to all)

5.3.9 Modernisation of the bus fleet so as to be Nicosia Municipality Continuous Number of buses user-friendly for people on wheelchairs and women with children in baby carriers

5.3.10 Study to include and increase bus routes Nicosia Municipality Continuous Number of routes that will serve the needs of the economy and the needs of the non-working men and women 37 Interim Objective 4: Reduce Unemployment Actions Implementing Agency Implementation Costing Monitoring Indicators Ministry/Department/ Time Service

5.4.1 Specific Prevention Plan - Action Plan for Human Resources Continuous Co-funding from Number of unemployed tackling unemployment. Development Authority the European people placed in jobs, Actions under the project: Social Fund number of unemployed trained in order to improve A. Prevention of Unemployment their employability, keep B. Employment and Training their employment C. Improving Employability Interim objective 5: Reconciliation of work and family Actions Implementing Agency Implementation Costing Monitoring Indicators Ministry/Department/ Time Service

5.5.1. Preparation and adoption of a Family and Ministry of Labour, 2014-2015 Family and Demographic Demographic Policy Plan 2014-2015 Welfare and Social Policy Plan 2014-2015 Insurance Welfare Services National Agency for Family and Demographic Policy

5.5.2 Subsidising women according to specific Welfare Services Project: Number of women criteria for partial coverage of the cost of care Subsidisation of subsidised 38 for dependent family members for a period up Social Care Services to 18 months in the context of reconciliation of professional and family life

5.5.3 " De Minimis State Subsidies scheme of the Ministry of Labour, Every year State budget Number of programmes Social Welfare Services, under Commission Welfare and Social implemented Regulation 360/2012 for the provision of Insurance services of general economic interest. Welfare Services Local Authorities Closer cooperation and financial support given NGOs to Local Authorities for the creation of programmes Number of structures strengthened Reinforcing structures and childcare services (especially infants) and other dependent family members

5.5.4 Strengthening and possible extension of Ministry of Labour, Amendment of the leaves (e.g. maternity leave, parental leave) Welfare and Social legislation for the care of children Insurance

5.5.5 Promotion / Creation / Operation of nurseries NGOs Number of and kindergartens in workplaces where large nurseries/kindergartens numbers of women are employed

5.5.6 Children's social care services (Cypriot or non- Nicosia Multi-purpose Continuous There is a low cost Number of participants Cypriot): Pick up from school, feeding, Municipal Centre for participants. The guidance from teachers for homework, funding of the 39 participation in creative activities. programs comes from the

5.5.7 Consultancy services, individual meetings and Advisory Centre of the Continuous sponsorship of the Number of meetings organisation of lectures and experiential Nicosia Multi-purpose Municipality, the Number of lectures and workshops (focusing on problems affecting Municipal Centre state and experiential workshops women, while babysitting is provided) individuals and EU programmes 40 Objective 6: Elimination of Stereotypes and social prejudices According to the Concluding Observations of the CEDAW Committee, patriarchal attitudes and deep rooted stereotypes regarding the roles and responsibilities of women and men in the family, in the workplace, in political and public life and in society at large continue to persist, limiting their access to decision-making positions and elected office, and affecting their educational and professional choices and ultimately their position in the labour market 2. The media as a driver for social change are expected to play a particularly important role in cultivating and creating a mentality free from stereotypes and social prejudices, through actions that promote and highlight the positive image of women who are active in the political and economic life, ensuring at the same time equal opportunities for men and women. Furthermore, the launching of educational campaigns directed to both at men and women, in collaboration with civil society and the media, is strongly recommended. 3. In addition, concerning the education system, the CEDAW Committee, while noting with satisfaction the adoption of the Action Plan for Equality of Men and Women in Education, which includes measures to overcome traditional roles and gender stereotypes in the family and society, is concerned about the lack of evaluation of the implementation of this Plan. The Committee is also concerned about the concentration of women in fields of study traditionally dominated by women and their under-representation in technical and vocational education. 4. Moreover, the education system and various academic institutions should incorporate the principle of gender equality in all educational programs and to develop actions that encourage and promote the involvement of women in all sectors of social, economic and political life. 5. Based on the above, the interim objectives to eliminate stereotypes and social prejudices are determined as follows: 1) Elimination of prejudices and promotion of equality through the media and 2) Integration of equality in the education system / education programs. 41 Objective 6: Elimination of Stereotypes and Social Prejudices Interim objective 1: Elimination of prejudice and promotion of equality through the media Actions Implementing Agency Implementation Costing Monitoring Indicators Ministry/Department/ Time Service

6.1.1 Adoption /Implementation of a Code of Ethics in Ministry of Interior the Media Cyprus Radio-television Authority

6.1.2 Awareness raising and training of media Cyprus Radio-television Number of training professionals Authority programmes Office of the Commissioner Number of persons for Administration and trained Human Rights/Equality Authority, Cyprus Union of Journalists Ministry of Interior Interim Objective 2: Integration of equality in the educational system/ educational programmes Actions Implementing Agency Implementation Costing Monitoring Indicators Ministry/Department/ Time Service

6.2.1 Operation of an Inter-departmental Committee All the departments of the Every School comprising representatives of all departments Ministry of Education and year 42 and services of the Ministry of Education and Culture Culture. This committee coordinates all the gender equality issues relating to the activities of the Ministry of Education and Culture

6.2.2. Day school allowing students to extend their Department of Primary stay at school, studying and taking part in other Education cultural, sporting, educational activities. Department of Secondary Utilisation of the services of Educational Priority General Education Zones in all schools Educational psychology Service Preventing and combating violence and Ministry of Education and delinquency in the school and in the family. Culture

6.2.3. Implementation of programs in schools designed Educational psychology Throughout the From existing to promote equality and mutual respect among Service school year resources all the children of the class, regardless of their origin or gender

6.2.4. Developing measures to eliminate all forms of Ministry of Education and 2013 -14 Number of actions stereotyping men and women in the context of Culture the objective: 'Cultivation of active citizenship, with emphasis on social solidarity' (second goal of the academic year 2013 -14, as defined by the Ministry of Education and Culture)

6.2.5. Operation of gender equality pages in the Ministry of Education and Website Pedagogical Institute website Culture

6.2.6. Programmes to encourage the development of Ministry of Education and Every school Number of positive attitudes, skills and attitudes on issues Culture year programmes/ actions such as: (Coordinating Committee for Active citizenship Health Education and Healthy interpersonal relations Citizenship Acceptance, respect and management of diversity Sexual and reproductive health - Family 43 planning Prejudices, stereotypes, social exclusion and racism

6.2.7 Programme to encourage girls to increase their Ministry of Education and Number of participants participation in technical jobs and in the use of Culture new technologies

6.2.8. Creating modern apprenticeship programmes Ministry of Labour, Welfare Dissemination of the aiming to attract girls in technical jobs and in the and Social Repetitive action programme use of new technologies Insurance(Administrative part) ( A ministerial decision has Ministry of Education and been taken and Culture, a memorandum of cooperation Department of Technical and has been Vocational Education signed) (Educational part)

6.2.9. Preparation / distribution of modern educational Ministry of Education and Printed material material that will include the gender dimension in Culture Distribution of printed order to combat gender stereotypes (from an material early age)

6.2.10. Conducting research to record the needs and Ministry of Education and Research expectations of women of “different” cultural Culture groups and their children.

6.2.11. Meetings of Counselling and Vocational Career Counselling and Throughout the Number of meetings Education teachers with students displaying Vocational Education school year attitudes of discrimination and creation of Services experiential groups to accept all pupils (Ministry of Education and Culture)

6.2.12. Integration issues related to gender and Career Counselling and September From existing Printed and electronic stereotypes in Vocational Education courses Educational Services 2014 – January resources matter (especially in the Lyceum and Technical School (Ministry of Education and 2015 -which attract mainly boys) Culture) 44

6.2.13. Professionals present masculine / female- Career Counselling and December From existing Printed and electronic dominated professions in the context of work in Educational Services 2013- February resources matter high schools (Ministry of Education and 2014 and Culture) December 2014 Professionals from various –February 2015 fields

6.2.14 Recording programs and actions on gender Department of Higher and Working Week Number of issues (for the academic and administrative staff Tertiary Education (Ministry programmes and/or students) that are in progress or planned of Education and Culture ) for the future by higher education institutions.

6.2.15 Collection of material which relates to the Department of Higher and Dissemination – promotion of gender equality (works of art, Tertiary Education Presentation of articles, photos) material

6.2.16 Interdisciplinary conference on issues related to Secondary Education Conference gender for teachers at all levels (Ministry of Education and Culture)

6.2.17 Training educationists and parents on issues Pedagogical Institute Number of trainings related to gender Training teachers and education cadres at (Ministry of Education and school base level Culture) Training of parents at school base level Educational Psychology Service Ministry of Education and Culture 45

6.2.18 Seminars / lectures for parents to combat Ministry of Labour, Welfare 2013-2015 gendered occupational segregation and Social Insurance Ministry of Education and Culture

6.2.19 Training of Career Counsellors on Ministry of Labour, Welfare 2013-2015 Number of trainings and Social Insurance Number of Participants • Gender and occupational options • Introduction of a gender perspective in the Ministry of Education and Counselling Procedure Culture • Professional Counselling on gender dimension • Cultivating awareness of the restrictive role of gender and the stereotypes associated with it Pedagogical Institute • Issuing a Manual for Career counselling teachers for carrying out activities related to Implementing agency gender stereotypes and gendered segregation of occupations

6.2.20 Information and awareness- raising of pre- Ministry of Labour, Welfare primary, primary and secondary education and Social Insurance teachers on gender issues and on combating segregation into "male" and "female" professions Ministry of Education and • Issues of gender relations Culture • Gender roles • Stereotypes in relation to gender and Pedagogical Institute occupations • Practical guidelines for the elimination of Implementing agency stereotypes

6.2.21 Teacher training in prevention and combating Department of Primary Number of trainings delinquency with reference to gender Number of Participants relationships. Secondary General Technical and Vocational Education Pedagogical Institute 46

6.2.22 Promoting gender equality through artistic NGOs Dissemination of the creation and informing children about equal results through the rights and responsibilities organisation of exhibitions of works of children in schools in Nicosia and rewarding projects

6.2.23 Competition among Lyceums and Technical Pedagogical Institute January 1000.00 Dissemination of the Schools students for writing a speech on (Ministry of Education and February 2014 results of the Gender Equality Culture ) competition Gender Equality Committee in Employment and Vocational Training 47