Olivia Janisch re-elected as women's chairwoman

The women in the trade union vida are above all committed to fair pay. Women in Austria still earn around 17 percent less than men. One reason for this is gender discrimination, which already begins in schools and training centres. But the unequal distribution of gainful employment and care work is also reflected in women's CVs. Last but not least, the care of children, the elderly and the sick forces many women into part-time employment.

Working time is a key factor

The trade unionists see working hours as a key to regulating gender relations. The threat of an increase in working hours would cement traditional role models and make it even more difficult for women to reconcile work and family life, or to take advantage of career and promotion opportunities. Extending working hours would also lead to a division between women, with preference given to those who can afford to outsource private care work. Low-income women, including many migrant women, are excluded from this privilege.

Cohesion as a strength

Guests of honour at the Women's Conference were Korinna Schumann, ÖGB Vice-President and ÖGB Women's Chairwoman, Roman Hebenstreit, vida Chairman and Renate Anderl, President of the Chamber of Labour. In their speeches, they emphasized the commonalities of employees and emphasized solidarity as the strongest force against injustice. Nevertheless, it is important to continue to take a close look at the discrimination of women and to fight vigorously for gender equality.

Demands for more equality

Women want to live a self-determined and independent life. The basic prerequisites for this are an independent, living income, as well as nationwide children's education facilities, which often make full-time employment possible in the first place.

The vida women therefore demand:

• A closing of the wage gap between women and men.
• Higher wages and salaries in the lower wage groups and low-wage sectors.
• A reduction in working hours with full wage compensation.
• The promotion of further training for employees.
• The full crediting of the care and family internship periods.
• Better protection of female workers from violence and harassment in the workplace.
• Legally anchored minimum supply standards in public tenders and awards.