Saxony is also getting an equality law after years of discussion. On Wednesday, the state parliament passed by a majority - against the votes of the AfD - the government coalition's draft on gender equality in the civil service, which had been agreed on over two years.
Justice Minister Katja Meier (Greens) said the law would ensure greater gender equality in state and local government. She is convinced that this will have an exemplary effect, also for companies. The law is "no declaration of war and no provocation", it rather serves the good of all people, she said to partly sharp criticism from the AfD faction.
The law comes into force on January 1, 2024. It replaces the almost 20-year-old Women's Advancement Act and is, according to Meier, "a compromise" between what is desired and what is feasible. It establishes equal opportunities and justice. Women would be promoted in the future according to their qualification and should be preferred in leading positions with equal suitability if they are underrepresented in the departments.
The law makes flexible working time models possible and thus more compatibility of occupation and family or care. It encourages men to "take on more responsibility at home."
In addition, the participation rights of women are to be improved, including the right to sue in the event of violations. Also equal opportunity commissioners are to be strengthened - starting from 17,000 inhabitants municipalities must use such and these also release for their task. Meier spoke of a "good news for all people in the Free State."
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