A panel discussion in Skopje brought together representatives of the civil society, academia, the business community and institutions to examine the structural economic disadvantages faced by women in our country and the financial impact of gender inequality on society.

The event, titled “Who Pays the Bill? The Price of Inequality”, was held at Europe House Skopje and marked the launch of the “Bring the Change” campaign and national roadshow. The discussion focused on the economic consequences of gender inequality across the entire life cycle, from education and entry into the labor market to career development, entrepreneurship, family care and retirement.

The event was opened by Ben Nupnau, Acting Ambassador of the EU Delegation, who welcomed the attendees and officially launched the initiative. The panel discussion addressed the fact that gender inequality, while often treated as a social issue, is also a systemic economic imbalance with measurable financial consequences. Participants discussed how inequality affects women’s living incomes, pension security, household stability, business competitiveness and the country’s economic growth.

The panel brought together diverse perspectives and was moderated by Kristina Hadzi-Vasileva, a strategic development consultant. Panelists included Nikica Kusinikova from KSO Konekt, Biljana Petrovska-Mitrevska from NFF and Makedonka Dimitrova, a university professor and entrepreneur.

The discussion addressed the economic cost of gender inequality, the value of unpaid care work and the consequences of the gender pay gap and career breaks. Participants also discussed structural barriers that limit women’s economic advancement, such as work culture, access to childcare and unequal property ownership, as well as the role of legislation and corporate standards in reducing these gaps. The debate concluded with a discussion of possible solutions and the responsibilities of institutions, the business sector and society.

The event also marked the launch of the “Wear the Change” campaign, an annual initiative led by Europe House, the Delegation to the European Union and the embassies of EU member states. The campaign focuses on structural inequality and the burden of unpaid work carried out by women. Although launched in the framework of the celebration of International Women’s Day, the initiative will keep the topic in focus throughout the year through a series of debates, workshops, cultural events and public discussions organized across the Europe House network.