The Position of Female Entrepreneurs in the European Union and Transition Countries

Abstract

In the European Union at the level of the European Commission the principle of gender equality, called gender mainstreaming, has been introduced in all areas of activities and policy. The term "gender mainstreaming" is the key and it has been accepted for the implementation of policies of gender equality in the EU Member States, that, according to the definition of the Council of Europe means reorganization, improvement, development and evaluation of political processes in a way that the perspective of gender equality is included in all policies at all levels and degrees, by the actors involved in political decision-making. Although women constitute the majority of the world's population, in the field of entrepreneurial activities they constitute the minority due to their socially, economically and politically inferior position with regard to men. Sex-related inequalities on the labor market and in entrepreneurial activities are connected to unequal educational and training opportunities which are further reflected to their choice of profession and possibilities for advancement. The change in social paradigms has radically altered the balance of powers between women and men in society at large, as well as in business. However, the fact is that there are fewer women entrepreneurs in relation to men. The aim of the paper is to identify the major obstacles encountered by women in a business. This paper also serves to support the entrepreneurship of women and to promote its development.