ABSTRACT
Gender equality is arguably one of the most developed and elaborated general principles of European Union (EU) law. The deepening of the principle of sex equality has been matched by the widening of EU equality legislation. By codifying the principle, the EU has made a clear commitment to mainstreaming gender equality to all areas of EU law; there is, little guidance concerning the process on how to make this commitment effective. Gender mainstreaming can indeed be an important principle for addressing shortcomings in many areas, such as the eradication of poverty, sustainable development, trade, governance and human rights, children's rights and disability. The chapter has emphasises that in order to be successful the principle needs to be supported by a "feminist vision". In order to inject new energy in the gender mainstreaming concept, it would be necessary to focus on its very aim, namely the achievement of a fair society where equality and diversity are acknowledged and promoted.
