By Paola Panzeri

During the month of February two important reports, on Women domestic workers and carers in the EU (2015/2094(INI)) and on the application of Parental Leave Directive (2015/2097(INI)) were approved respectively in the FEMM (women’s rights and gender equality) and EMPL (employment and social affairs) Committees of the European Parliament.

COFACE welcomes the initiatives of the rapporteurs MEP Kuneva and MEP Arena for initiating these reports and bringing to light these two major challenges for families in the EU. COFACE is very engaged in both areas of work, at EU level and through its Members who provide advice and services to families.

The issue of women having to go abroad to look for a job, very often in the care sector and leaving their families, children and older parents behind is a growing trend in Europe and, considering the demographic projection, it will continue to grow.Therefore, we…