Mr President, it has become a custom in this House for us to talk about equality between men and women during night sessions. It does not matter, but it is a reality which is nonetheless curious to say the least. I would like it if we could talk about equality between men and women one afternoon as well. The policy of equality between men and women is one of the best allies in the European Union’s commitment to combat poverty. We have said this endless times during these night sessions, and almost all of us sitting here are convinced of it. It is a question of making it a reality in the budget as well. Since the nineties we have made a lot of progress with regard to these policies, but we have not yet achieved the desired results. We all know this as well. As the Commission's document argues, it is necessary to explore new avenues and, above all, to achieve the effective application of the measures we approve at national level, which is where we face the greatest difficulties. While in 2001, in the action programme, we stressed the need to integrate the gender factor, that is, to consider, to draw up and to evaluate objectives in a manner which is inclusive of women, we now have to supplement that strategy by creating a solid basis for this policy linked to the millennium development objectives. As we always reiterate, it is necessary to intensify the political message with regard to the promotion of equality between men and women, both within the Union and, above all, in the developing countries. Poverty, illiteracy, disease, unemployment, lack of autonomy, dependency, and the violation of the most fundamental rights, are a reality for the majority of women in the developing world. The gender perspective, specific policies, increasing awareness and support for the public and private capacities of the developing countries, so that they can take the initiative of promoting equality between men and women, are some of the measures essential to progress on this strategy. Cross-border and regional cooperation, the promotion of a complementary policy and programmes relating, for example, to reproductive and sexual health, which are currently being seriously jeopardised by religion-based conservative policies, are essential conditions for the achievement of our objectives. The regulation we are debating today will undoubtedly contribute to improving our action. It has clearly been improved during its parliamentary phase, since we have insisted on key issues, such as the participation of women's organisations on the ground, which are the real protagonists in terms of the progress of their communities; also, control and access by women to training and health services and decision-making processes. It is necessary to stress the need for technical assistance, including evaluation of the impact on equality in areas such as education, training and the media. Combating AIDS and violence against women and giving women power are still outstanding debts. It is necessary and urgent to adopt this regulation without excessively extending the time limits. It is therefore necessary to reach a compromise so that the application of this regulation may be effective from January 2004. That is what I wish to call for now.

Political group: PSE