As part of its Presidency’s Policy Programme, Malta will host an informal meeting of the Committee of Ministers’ Deputies (CM-D) focused on the theme “Dismantling Gender Norms: A Discussion on Harmful Gender Stereotypes”. Its aim is to place equality, education, and democratic resilience at the centre of its agenda.
The event will convene a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including expert speakers, high-level institutional representatives, Member States’ delegations, and over ten Gender Equality Ambassadors, for an open and forward-looking exchange. Discussions will explore the structural and cultural drivers of gender-based violence, with particular focus on how harmful gender stereotypes perpetuate inequality and hinder inclusive democratic participation.
By spotlighting prevention, education, and the role of men and boys, the meeting will aim to reframe the conversation around gender equality away from reactive measures and towards long-term cultural transformation. Drawing on legal expertise, institutional insights, and grassroots advocacy, the event will seek to deepen collective understanding and inspire cross-sectoral, inclusive policy design.
This timely platform will also examine the intersection of gender, technology, and democratic backsliding, offering new perspectives on how digital spaces can both reinforce and challenge harmful norms. As such, it therefore fully reflects Malta’s strong commitment to promoting equality and dismantling barriers to participation across all levels of society.
