Much remains to be done for gender equality in Luxembourg, as exemplified by a recent study where 46% of respondents say they have been victims of sexism at work.
The women’s strike wants to draw attention to issues such as equal pay, three months of parenting leave for each partner, and violence against women and girls. Around 1,500 people were present at the demonstration according to police.
The gender pay gap in Luxembourg is only 1.4%, according to a study by the Chamber of Employees. But this doesn’t mean there is nothing left to do: “This forgets one important aspect”, says Michelle Cloos from the OGBL. Women are much more likely to work part time in order to look after family. This will have an effect on their pension, of course.
The socio-economic consequences of the Covid pandemic have hit women much harder than men. This was confirmed by a recent LISER study: “Women’s employment has been affected more than men’s during periods of lockdown. The increase in child care responsibilities during school closures fell disproportionately on women’s shoulders.”
Despite the label of “women’s strike”, there were men showing their support, too. Equality is everybody’s business, argued a young demonstrator. The strike is meant as a symbol, which is why it took place after work hours. Participants walked from Gare Central to Place d’Armes.
Further information can be found on fraestreik.lu.
