Introduction

Since its establishment in July 1999, The Gender Task Force has been building bridges within the SEE Region as well as between the EU and the SEE Region. By targeting SEE parliaments, governments, political parties, NGO’s trade unions, the GTF has been able to make a strong institutional basis for eliminating gender inequalities.The External Evaluation of the GTF undertaken in 2005 gave clear recognition to the GTF for its ability to use its resources for multiplying results by working both horizontally and vertically. In the transition from Stability Pact to Regional Cooperation Council in 2008, the GTF is adding value to regional cooperation by developing new methods and outputs and bringing local or limited best practices to a regional and global level. The GTF’s interventions through its programs and actions provide the basis for real social change and contribute to European Integration.

The GTF MISSION STATEMENT

The GTF is committed to advancing sustainable, gender-balanced development in SouthEast Europe, in the context of European Integration

GTF Priorities 2010 – 2014

1. Parliamentary Cooperation

The GTF has used parliamentary cooperation for advancing gender equality and democracy since its beginnings in 1999; numerous benefits have been obtained from the GTF parliamentary cooperation methodologies.

2. Political Party Gender Mainstreaming

As a result of the political environment in SEE, women and gender equality have been a low priority for most SEE parties, with some positive signs of improvement on the horizon. The GTF’s work in this field since 2002, including its unique database of gender and SEE Parliamentary Political Parties should be continued.