This background paper examines how gender equality is addressed within the European Union’s external action. It provides an overview of the policies, institutional actors and procedures that shape EU engagement on gender equality and the Women, Peace and Security agenda.
The document reviews key policy frameworks guiding EU action, including the Gender Action Plan III, the EU Strategic Approach to Women, Peace and Security and related Council conclusions and policy strategies. It also explains how gender considerations are integrated across different areas of EU external policy.
The paper identifies institutional actors involved in advancing gender equality within EU external action. These include relevant units of the European Commission, the European External Action Service, the European Parliament and specialised roles such as equality ambassadors and gender focal points.
In addition, the document outlines procedures used to implement and monitor these policies, including planning mechanisms and reporting processes linked to EU gender equality commitments.
