Gleichbereifung

Gleichberechtigung, in German often referred to as Gleichberechtigung der Geschlechter, denotes the principle that all people should enjoy equal rights, duties and opportunities regardless of gender. It covers political participation, education, employment, pay, family life and civil rights, and is closely linked to Gleichstellung, which emphasizes achieving equal treatment in practice.

Legal frameworks: Constitutions and human-rights law guarantee equality before the law and prohibit gender-based discrimination. In Germany, the Basic Law (Grundgesetz) Art. 3(1) declares equality before the law, and Art. 3(2) prohibits discrimination on grounds of gender. The European Union and many states enforce rules on equal treatment in work and education; international instruments include the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW).

History: The modern pursuit of Gleichberechtigung gained momentum in the 19th and 20th centuries, with women’s suffrage and improved access to education. In the postwar era, many countries enacted comprehensive anti-discrimination and equal-pay legislation. Ongoing legal and social reforms aim to close gaps in pay, representation and opportunities across genders.

Current issues and approaches: While progress has been significant, gaps remain in pay, leadership representation, and caregiving duties. Policy responses include enforcement of anti-discrimination laws, equal-pay rules, parental leave and childcare policies, and, in some jurisdictions, quotas or targets for women in leadership roles. The concept also intersects with race, disability and sexuality. See also: Gleichstellung, Geschlechtergleichstellung.