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Forthcoming Event

Fawcett : Old issue, new direction?
Defining the vision for gender equality

Fawcett Debate 2006
With the kind support of KPMG

• Tuesday 12th September from12.00-14.00
• A sandwich lunch will be provided.
• Attlee Suite, Portcullis House, Westminster
• Keynote speaker: Rt Hon Harriet Harman QC MP

Background

The influx of women MPs in 1997 ensured that issues such as women's representation, childcare and work-life balance are part of mainstream UK political debate. And with all major political parties now developing positions on gender equality and realising the importance of women's votes, these issues are likely to be a battleground at the next general election like never before. In spite of widespread government action, there are many pressing questions unanswered and, as a suite of statistics show, progress on gender equality has been painfully slow in many areas. Women themselves are increasingly disillusioned with national politics and the ability of government to deliver on issues of concern to them.

Against this backdrop, this lecture will explore:

• What should be the vision of gender equality driving the policy agenda?
• How can policy deliver to a diversity of women's needs across areas such as education, employment and health?
• Where are the gaps and what action would it take to fill these?
• How can politics re-engage women as voters and potential candidates?
• Are men included as a focus for policy and as partners in delivering change?
• How do the visions of government, business, the voluntary sector and individuals compare, and how should they partner to deliver this ambitious agenda?

The Fawcett Debate

The inaugural Fawcett Debate will provide a platform for leading thinkers to come together and share views, set out challenges etc. The Rt Hon Harriet Harman QC MP will give a keynote address, followed by a rigorous and informed discussion from a panel of key experts. The event will be chaired by Fawcett President, Jenni Murray OBE.

Follow up

It is hoped that the lecture will continue to inform the work a broad audience of organisations and individuals. A short summary of the lecture reflecting the key issues and recommendations for action will be published.

RSVP by Sept 5 to petronela.sasurova@fawcettsociety.org.uk or by phone 020 7253 2598