Gender Equality and Diversity: Friends in Theory, Frenemies in Practice? Investigating the Complex Interplay within European Union

The study examines the intricate relationship between gender equality and diversity, particularly in the context of political institutions. It emphasizes that while these concepts are theoretically aligned in their pursuit of equality, their practical implementation often reveals a complex and competitive dynamic. The study focuses on the intersections of structural racism and gender within political institutions, highlighting how they affect the meaningful connection and conceptual treatment of gender equality and diversity, particularly within the European Union (EU) legal framework. The study posits that EU policies often fail to meaningfully address the connections between gender equality and diversity, instead approaching them in non-conceptual or even competing manners. This is attributed, in part, to the multifaceted nature of diversity, which encompasses various aspects of identity such as race, ethnicity, and sexuality, in addition to gender. The pursuit of diverse representation does not necessarily guarantee gender equality, and vice versa. To investigate these theoretical notions empirically, the study conducts a comparative analysis of EU laws and policies related to gender equality, racial minorities, and the LGBTQ+ community. This analysis uncovers both the synergies and tensions within these legal provisions, shedding light on the complex landscape of diversity and equality within the EU legal system. Furthermore, the study assesses whether the existing legal provisions and the EU acquis (the body of EU laws and regulations) adequately address the intersections of gender and minority status. It also explores whether specific and actionable policies supplement these provisions for effective application across EU member states. Additionally, the study incorporates an empirical analysis of relevant demographic data to gauge the real-world implications and effectiveness of EU diversity and equality policies. In conclusion, the study underscores the need for a more nuanced understanding and application of gender equality and diversity in policymaking. It contributes to the ongoing discourse on these topics and offers valuable insights to inform policymaking at the EU level. By highlighting the theoretical friendship and practical rivalry between gender equality and diversity, the study emphasizes the necessity of policies that effectively integrate and balance these two essential aspects of inclusive societies.