274 women supported through employment programs with 25% securing employment, while 565 women participated in empowerment initiatives

On the occasion of International Women’s Day on March 8th, SolidarityNow presents the results of three programs supporting women in labor inclusion and empowerment for 2025:

• 274 women were supported through the employment programs “Bridging the Gap” and “Livelihoods Unlocked: Empowering Women through Employment”.
• 25% of participants secured employment.

Through personalized guidance and practical tools, participants gain the skills and resources they need to enter or re-enter the labor market. The programs focus on women from particularly vulnerable backgrounds who face limited opportunities. Key employment sectors include tourism and hospitality.

From Support to Employment

N.S., a mother of one, was seeking employment in order to leave an abusive marriage. Through SolidarityNow’s network of partner employers, she now works in jewelry making. Her employer supported her with understanding, accommodating her request for reduced hours, even though the position was originally full-time.

• 565 women were supported through the empowerment program “Female Forward: Together for Women’s Inclusion”.

The program focuses on personal development and skill-building to help women recognize their potential and chart their own path. It is implemented in three asylum seeker accommodation centers in northern Greece.

At the program’s Female Friendly Spaces, I., a single mother of five, shared: “I think I found something I never had before; a little time for myself, an environment of understanding and creativity.”

Women in the Greek Labor Market

In 2026 in Greece, women represent approximately 46% of the labor force, yet inequalities remain evident. The gender pay gap stands at 13.4% (2024), and women’s participation in the labor market remains below the European average.

According to the Gender Equality Index, Greece scores 57/100 and ranks 22nd in the EU, lagging the European average, particularly in employment and time allocation.

Women from vulnerable groups, such as migrants, refugees, and those living in poverty, face multiple barriers to employment and social protection.

Progress is being made, but equality has not yet been fully realized. Enhancing women’s participation in the economy, ensuring equal pay for equal work, equitable distribution of caregiving responsibilities, and greater representation in decision-making are essential for a fairer society.

Because when women thrive, everyone prospers.

“Bridging the Gap” is implemented with the support of Alpha Bank.

The “Livelihoods Unlocked” project is supported by the L’Oréal Fund for Women.

“Female Forward • together for women’s inclusion” is funded by the Kahane Foundation.