International legal (European) standards of protection against gender discrimination

Abstract

Gender equality is part of a broad cultural transformation that changes the functioning of traditional societies and contributes to the development of democratic institutions. Validation of gender equality provides a transition to post-materialistic values of self-realization, which contribute to the economic development of countries.

In 2014, an Association Agreement was signed between Ukraine, on the one hand, and the European Union, the European Atomic Energy Community and their member states, on the other hand, which defines a qualitatively new format of relations with the EU on the principles of “political association and integration ”is a strategic reference point for systemic reforms in Ukraine. From association with the EU, it follows that each country seeking to gain membership in the European Union must comply with the standards in force in the EU and respect those rights and obligations granted to its member countries. In particular, the Agreement provides for the need to strengthen the dialogue and cooperation of the parties to ensure, in particular, gender equality and non-discrimination.

Nowadays Ukraine has a constitutional reform. This reform is aimed at developing a democratic legal state and European integration. Equal rights and opportunities for both sexes is one of the main pillars of this reform and at the same time a sensitive indicator that shows how developed and democratic the state is.

The international (European) standards of protection against gender discrimination, their significance for Ukraine in the context of constitutional reform are analyzed in the article. International standards for gender equality and the main documents are considered; the activities of international organizations, specialized bodies and other institutions whose goal is to ensure gender equality is studied.