European Charter for Equality - City is a new member

On November 27, 2025, the City of Erlangen officially joined the European Charter for Equality between Women and Men at Local Level . This charter was developed in 2006 by the Council of European Municipalities and Regions and supports cities and municipalities in implementing a binding and systematic gender equality policy in all areas.

Over 2,000 municipalities in 36 European countries - including four Bavarian cities (Munich, Nuremberg, Würzburg and Kaufbeuren) - have already signed the charter. By joining, Erlangen becomes part of a Europe-wide network that promotes the exchange of experiences and best practices and increases the visibility of gender equality issues.

By joining, the city commits to promoting equality as a fundamental right, eliminating discrimination, overcoming gender stereotypes and ensuring the equal participation of all genders in all municipal areas. Gender equality work is thus anchored as a binding cross-sectional task in administration, politics and urban society.

The next important step is the creation of an equality action plan, which is to be developed within two years of accession. This action plan will be developed in a broad participation process with various stakeholders from administration, politics, business and civil society.

The city council has voted to focus the first action plan on the topic of protection against violence, i.e. combating gender-specific and domestic violence. Violence against women* in particular, but also against other victims, is a serious problem throughout Germany that is increasing year on year. Unfortunately, violence against women* is still widespread and the most unsafe place for women* is their own home. With the action plan, the city wants to develop effective measures with all those involved to protect and support those affected and to better network existing structures. The accession and the upcoming steps are important milestones on the way to a fairer and safer city for all people.