Our country rose 20 places in the global ranking, reaching 73rd place with an equality index of 0.714. However, despite this progress, it still ranks 34th among the 40 European countries, indicating that there is still much room for improvement in achieving full equality.

According to a ManpowerGroup survey of 525 Greek employers, only 24% believe that their corporate initiatives contribute to increasing female representation in all professional roles.

The survey shows that women are still underrepresented in senior management positions (22%) and professional/technical positions (27%). The percentages are slightly higher in middle management (29%) and front-line management positions (31%).

Moreover, the wage gap remains significant. According to data from the GSEE Labor Institute, women in Greece are paid 16.5% less than men for the same work. The same is true in the European Union, where women continue to be paid less than men. In Greece, according to ELSTAT, the gender wage gap ranges from 8.6% to 40.5%, with men being paid more.

Despite the challenges, Greek employers appear optimistic. According to the survey:

• 45% believe that gender equality will be fully achieved in their company within the next two years.
• 29% state that equality has already been achieved.
• 44% say their business is “close to full equality.”
• Only 4% consider their business to be far from gender equality.

Monitoring promotions through development programs is 34% globally and 33% in Greece. Analyzing and addressing DEIB challenges is 34% globally, but only 28% in Greece, which suggests that Greek businesses are not yet effectively measuring inequalities in the workplace. Furthermore, measuring flexibility policies is 34% globally, but only 26% in Greece.

Globally, trust between teams is considered the most decisive factor for the success of DEIB initiatives (42%), while in Greece the figure is 40%. Supporting employee well-being ranks 2nd globally (40%) and in Greece (37%).

Equal opportunity policies rank 3rd globally (38%) and in Greece (35%). Employee recognition for efforts to promote diversity and inclusion is 36% globally and 32% in Greece.

Globally, 35% of employers consider it critical to support employees caring for children or the elderly, while in Greece the figure is 34%. Mentoring and training in different working models is supported by 35% of employers globally and 29% in Greece.

According to the report, at the current rate, global gender equality will take 134 years to achieve, three years longer than the 2023 estimate.

Finally, Greece has made significant progress in political empowerment, rising 24 places since 2023. The country maintains high performance in women’s education and professional specialization. However, women’s representation in politics and senior leadership positions remains limited. Greece ranks 78th in women’s participation in politics, with women holding only 23% of parliamentary seats and 25% of ministerial positions.