The Council adopted conclusions on the implementation of the EU gender action plan II in 2017.

The goal of the EU gender action plan is to strengthen gender equality and women's empowerment in EU external action. The Council recognises the progress made globally towards achieving gender equality, while also acknowledging the remaining challenges.

In almost all countries women are still not on an equal footing with men regarding income, quality education, vocational training and access to health or technology. Conflict, the impact of climate change, natural disasters and forced displacement exacerbate the situation. Sexual and gender-based violence is used for political, economic and military ends. In this context, the Council strongly welcomes the 2018 Nobel Peace Prize awarded to those working to end the use of sexual violence as a weapon of war and armed conflict.

The Council reaffirms the EU's and member states' commitment to promote women's and girls' full enjoyment of all human rights, gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls as a priority across all areas of action. The EU gender action plan is an essential tool to contribute to achieving these goals.