The Women’s Law Center, in collaboration with Sociopolis Consultancy and with the support of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Moldova, in partnership with the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection, has launched the study “Men and Gender Equality in the Republic of Moldova” (IMAGES-2024). The event brought together experts, representatives of public authorities, civil society, the private sector, and journalists, providing a platform to discuss the progress of gender equality in the country.
"Today, we have come together to discuss both the progress and the challenges in the field of gender equality. The IMAGES study, one of the largest global studies, has been conducted in Moldova twice, in 2015 and 2024. Globally, progress in gender equality remains slow: women perform four times more unpaid domestic work, and although they make up 70% of the workforce, they hold only 20% of leadership positions. Some estimates suggest that, at the current pace, it will take at least 91 years to achieve equality in unpaid care work. Women’s political participation, a key indicator of gender equality, remains stagnant, with women accounting for just 26% of parliamentarians worldwide in March 2023,” stated Angelina Zaporojan-Pîrgari, Executive Director of the Women’s Law Center.
Present at the event, Marcela Adam, a Member of Parliament in Moldova, noted: "When striving to implement policies aimed at gender equality, it is essential to have clarity about the results achieved. Without this clarity, it is difficult to identify where to act more effectively. This study provides us with additional motivation to continue on the path we have started. I believe the responsibility for achieving real gender equality lies with each of us. It is important to acknowledge our contributions—whether as women or men—to building an inclusive and welcoming society for all.”
Felicia Bechtoldt, State Secretary of the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection, highlighted: "In 2015, the study provided valuable results and data, which were used in advocacy efforts to improve public policies, services, and existing programs at the ministry. I am confident that the 2024 data will provide useful insights and guidelines to continue our advocacy and enhance current programs. These findings will not only inform policymaking but, most importantly, ensure the provision of high-quality public services for citizens. I want people to feel that we are delivering effective, excellent services."
Karina A. Nersesyan, UNFPA Representative in Moldova, remarked: "Almost a decade later, the IMAGES study shows that things are improving in Moldova. In many areas, we have made significant progress. Every time I see a father pushing a stroller, I feel happy because I know he is part of this progress. Reducing inequalities in household tasks is a clear sign of evolution, with men becoming more involved in domestic activities, regularly accompanying their pregnant partners to the doctor, and being active participants in the wonderful journey of pregnancy. All these changes deserve to be celebrated, and during this festive season, we should take a moment to reflect. Let’s celebrate the progress achieved so far and set our goals for the year ahead."
During the event, Dr. Diana Cheianu-Andrei, a sociologist at Sociopolis, presented key findings from the study regarding men’s participation in domestic and educational activities, their understanding of gender-based violence, and their perceptions of equality. The findings reveal significant differences in perception between men and women, with women being more likely to view gender equality as a fundamental right. While progress is noted in public perception, stereotypes related to traditional gender roles persist, particularly in the labor market and within family responsibilities. Women continue to be seen as primarily responsible for childcare and household activities.
Gender-based violence is the area where correct understanding is highest, with 85% of women and 70% of men recognizing and understanding the issue. Comparative data from IMAGES-1 and IMAGES-2 show that fewer people now believe women should tolerate violence to maintain their families or that there are moments when a woman deserves to be beaten.
In reproductive health and associated rights, 77% of women and 62% of men have a correct perception. Differences in perception are attributed to women being directly affected by reproductive health issues and being better informed on the subject, while men continue to exhibit traditional attitudes, believing they have decision-making power over women’s bodies and that women should comply with their decisions.
The area of domestic responsibilities is where correct perceptions of gender equity are lowest, with only 64% of women and 55% of men recognizing equitable distribution of household responsibilities as a gender equity issue. According to 75% of men and 70% of women surveyed in 2024, the primary responsibility for providing for the family’s daily needs should fall on the husband/partner. This finding highlights traditional views that perpetuate inequalities within families and society.
The IMAGES study was first conducted in Moldova in 2015 by the Women’s Law Center in partnership with Sociopolis, funded by the OAK Foundation. Its data contributed to the development of gender equality policies and related areas.
The “Men and Gender Equality in the Republic of Moldova, 2024” study was conducted by the Women’s Law Center and Sociopolis Consultancy with financial support from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Moldova, in partnership with the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Republic of Moldova.
