Leading from Behind? Gender Equality in Germany During the Merkel Era

Whilst maintaining its status as an economic engine in Europe, Germany has historically been a laggard adopting gender equality measures. The European Gender Equality Index, however, now ranks relatively high and shows substantial progress since 2005. While this gone mostly unnoticed, passed far-reaching legislation major policy fields relevant for equality. This expansive adoption occurred during the chancellorship of Angela Merkel, but we still know little about actors processes that explain it. divergent perceptions relation to invite deeper scholarly investigation. In general, lack knowledge how conservative women their parties lead on policy. More specifically, need more measures introduced by governments affect norms culture, if they ultimately effective implementation greater Investigating effects Merkel's tenure equality, assess output outcomes with focus internal power dynamics Germany, well international EU-level pressures domains political representation, LGBTI rights, migration, labour market, care.