At the UN Women Italy 2026 WEP Forum last Tuesday, we discussed a key topic: how to transform our commitment to gender equality into concrete change.
In my speech, I explained the connection between the 7 Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEPs) and the 10 priorities identified by the UN Women Italy Scientific Committee to accelerate the achievement of gender equality.
My takeaway is simple.
The data still shows a significant gap.
The ISTAT BES (Equitable and Sustainable Well-Being) indicator “Work and Life Balance” reminds us that motherhood continues to have long-term effects on female employment.
The ASviS – Italian Alliance for Sustainable Development data tells us that, at the current rate of change, Italy will remain far from the European targets for female labor force participation.
This is why the WEPs are important.
Because they help organizations move from declarations of principles to concrete choices: leadership, organizational culture, training, welfare, innovation, and measurement of results, not just in HR functions.
And gender equality isn’t just about women, but the quality of organizations, the ability to innovate, and the future of our economic and social system.
Because female talent is not lacking.
We must continue to build environments capable of recognizing, valuing, and retaining it.
You can access the report.
Thanks to Deloitte, knowledge partner, for organizing this event with us; to Havas PR Milan Communication & Advocate, partner, Carter & Benson, for their hospitality and participation; to our Founding Partners for their participation; and to all those who are sharing this journey.
Photo credit: Sara Albegiani
