Germany's equality ministers push for women's health and financial reforms

The 36th Conference of Equality and Women’s Affairs Ministers (GFMK) ended in Dresden on Friday. Delegates addressed key issues, including women’s cardiovascular health and financial support for self-employed mothers. The event highlighted gaps in current protections and research for women. During the conference, ministers criticised the lack of women in medical studies. They noted that women often show different symptoms in cardiovascular diseases and respond differently to treatments. To address this, the group demanded better tracking of risk factors, targeted training for healthcare workers, and tailored preventive screenings for women.

The states also backed a federal initiative to prioritise gender-sensitive healthcare in research. This move aims to improve understanding and treatment of women’s health conditions.

Financial security for self-employed women was another major topic. Unlike salaried workers, they currently face full economic risk during maternity leave. Lower Saxony’s Equality Minister, Andreas Philippi, proposed a federal funding model or a solidarity-based contribution system to provide support. His push helped secure stronger maternity protections for self-employed women at the conference.

The delegates urged the federal government to introduce measures ensuring better financial security for self-employed women before and after childbirth. The conference concluded with clear demands for policy changes and research improvements. Better tracking of women’s health risks and financial safeguards for self-employed mothers are now expected to move forward. The outcomes aim to address long-standing inequalities in healthcare and economic support.