26 July 2018

The First Minister attended Aberdeen Standard Investments Gender Summit. It provided an opportunity to demonstrate the Scottish Government’s commitment to women’s equality, and in particular to convey the message that equality for women and the better representation of women, whether in sport or in the boardroom, is not just good for women but good for business and good for society.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said:

Achieving gender equality is a priority for the Scottish Government and we are taking action at different levels across our economy and society.

“Last year, we legislated to ensure there is gender balance on public sector boards and through the 50/50 by 2020 campaign, we’re encouraging businesses to do the same on their boards. And we are tackling the practical barriers that prevent women from participating in our economy – for example, by almost doubling free childcare entitlement.

“The importance of doing that has been particularly in focus this year as we celebrate the centenary of the first women winning the right to vote. In the century since then, we’ve made progress in achieving greater gender equality, but it’s clear that, as a society, we have far more to do. I welcome this opportunity to discuss what more we can all do to play our part in building a truly equal society.”

Watch the First Minister here

Advice for young women on making the most of #YOYP2018… “Identify what you’re passionate about and find a way of getting involved” – @JudyMurray

“Build relationships between generations so older women and younger women can teach one another” – @NicolaSturgeon #ASIgendersummit pic.twitter.com/0r6uoPFHXD

— SYP (@OfficialSYP) July 24, 2018

FM @NicolaSturgeon in discussion with @JudyMurray during @ASInvestmentsUK Gender Summit. First Minister: "Achieving gender equality is a priority for the Scottish Government." #ASIGenderSummit pic.twitter.com/Vm3XNzpajb

— First Minister (@ScotGovFM) July 24, 2018