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Introduction
If Europe is to become the most dynamic and competitive knowledge-based society of the world by 2010, the role of women has to be taken into account. Women nowadays contribute actively to the economy, but figures show that there is still a big unused female potential which, if turned into active economic players, will help to stimulate economic growth and prosperity. The active involvement of women in the economy will have beneficial effects on the other areas of society as well.
Chambers of Commerce promote the business interests of their members (male and female), and Eurochambres defends the interests of its member associations and their business members, including the female business members.
Given that women face specific problems in their professional careers or when starting an enterprise, particular care needs to be given to the cause of women in business and as entrepreneurs.
EUROCHAMBRES Women Network addresses all European Chambers' women and women professionals.
Its purpose is to support women professionals' in European Chambers and their member organisations regarding:
- exchange of information and promotion of specific viewpoints within the network
- structured support to faster development of Women Entrepreneurship including dissemination of the "Best practices" and benchmarking opportunities
- increased participation in the economic development in respective environments
- participation in public-private partnerships on local, national and European level
- promotion of the diversities in all areas of activities
- recognition of equal opportunity rights
- support in institutional lobbying at all levels
- active role in building corporate social responsibility
- better conditions for enabling balanced professional - private life.
The official launch of the network took place on 10 September 2003 in the presence of EUROCHAMBRES President Dr.Leitl, Commissioner Liikanen, and MEP Anna Karamanou, Chairperson of the European Parliament Committee on Women's Rights and Equal Opportunities. |