Holzleitner for a Fairer Distribution of Parental Leave Periods

Minister for Women Eva-Maria Holzleitner reaffirmed her support for an equal distribution of parental leave between parents in a conversation with the APA. Although the government program does not foresee specific steps in this direction, she emphasized: "If we want equality between women and men, then at some point in Austria we will also have to think about the distribution of parental leave."

Half-and-Half in Parental Leave as a Goal

The campaign "Real Men Do Half-and-Half," launched 30 years ago, is still relevant in her view. The goal is to break existing societal role models. Men are often stigmatized when they take parental leave, while women are criticized if they pick up their children later from care. "This has no place at all in the year 2025," said Holzleitner.

Holzleitner emphasized that she does not want to patronize anyone. However, both parents should have the opportunity for parental leave. "For me as a feminist, the economic self-determination of women is something very, very important." A fairer distribution would also bring advantages for companies – such as better planning and less discrimination in promotions.

A central concern of the minister remains the reduction of the gender pay gap. One lever for this is the EU directive on pay transparency, which is to be implemented by mid-2026. Specific thresholds – such as the company size at which it applies – are currently still under discussion.

Clear Rejection of Mandatory Military Service for Women

Regarding the idea of mandatory military service for women discussed in the spring, Holzleitner took a clear stance. As long as there are still structural inequalities in many areas, such a measure is not appropriate. "We don't even need to think about it," she said. There is also cross-party consensus on this.

The minister, however, is open to a legal reform regarding so-called social freezing. Currently, the freezing of eggs is only allowed for medical reasons. "I believe that we can definitely open up the basic access to it," she explained. At the same time, clear rules are needed to prevent pressure from employers.

Measures Against Violence and for Affordable Contraception

Among the previous successes of her department, Holzleitner counts the ban on marriage for minors, the reduction of VAT on period products and contraceptives, as well as the so-called "dick pic" paragraph. Currently, it is being examined with the health department how to ensure that the tax reliefs also reach consumers.

Additionally, a National Action Plan against Violence towards Women is to be presented by the end of the year. The goal is to systematically identify and close existing gaps in protection against violence. According to Holzleitner, the principle of gender budgeting should also be better anchored in future budget plans.

Including Women as the Majority Population

"Women make up more than half of the population," said Holzleitner. Therefore, it is crucial to approach socio-political issues in a non-partisan manner. As a successful example, she mentioned a unanimously adopted resolution in the National Council, which calls for a broad information campaign on the topic of date rape drugs.

(APA/Red)

This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.