H:
Another item to add to my list below:
The cover story of Newsweek International this week is entitled:
Stuck in Place: The Myth of Women's Equality in Europe
On the cover is a picture of a woman's legs with a chain clamped around one ankle.
From the article:

It sounds impossible, but it's true. For all the myths of equality that Europe tells itself, the Continent is by and large a woeful place for a woman who aspires to lead.
...
Among Europe's myriad problems, this one is huge—with ramifications way beyond gender relations. In fact, it wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that Europe's future hinges on it.
...
The result is a system where most European women do some kind of work outside the home, but relatively few enjoy genuine upward mobility.
...
Consider as well the double-edged benefits of part-time work—also held up in Europe as a solution for working mothers. In reality, it's a trap for those who want to get ahead.
...
The system doesn't help women break out of this downward spiral. To the contrary, most European countries base their tax structures around the notion of a single breadwinner. The result: taxwise, it's often advantageous for families if the mother doesn't work. Germany is exhibit A.

Interesting... And, it's in Newsweek!
C
- posted by Christoph Roggenkamp @ 2/22/2006 10:25:00 AM