At a glance
- An update on how our team in Italy can support you in obtaining gender equality certification.
- On 29 November 2022, Ministerial Decree 20 October 2022 was published in the Official Gazette and is addressed to employers who hold the so-called "Pink Label".
The Decree, issued by the Ministry of Labour, with the joint support of the Ministry of Finance and of the Ministry of Equal Opportunities, is addressed to employers who hold the so-called “Pink Label” and provides details on the criteria, and terms, for benefitting from security contribution exemptions.
Pink Label (Bollino Rosa) is a gender equality certification introduced on 18 November 2021 by Law 162/2021 (Amendments to the equal opportunity code).
Since 1 January 2022, private companies can be granted a reduction in social security contributions if they acquire the Pink Label.
Aim of the certificate
- Reduce the gender gap in relation to career opportunities in companies;
- Ensure equal pay for equal tasks; and
- Implement policies for the management of gender differences and maternity protection.
The newly issued Ministerial Decree provides that the social security contribution exemption is a maximum of 1% of the employer’s social security debt (up to an annual cap of EUR 50,000) and has to be offset from the monthly amount of social security contributions to be paid by the employer. The exemption applies for three years and is linked to the three-year validity of the Pink Label. The application for the exemption must be filed online by employers following instructions yet to be provided by the Italian Social Security Institute.
[UPDATE]
As you will be aware from our update above, a national gender equality certification system has recently been brought to force in Italy.
Although, currently the certification is adopted on a voluntary basis, we believe this could be a rewarding opportunity for your business.
Below, we highlight some further advantages for your company and why volunteering to become a part of this certification system may be a great next step for your business.
Advantages for companies obtaining the certification
- Reputational benefits: Adopting the certification acts as a virtuous example of how your business fits in line with the growing focus on gender equality within the corporate world. Many multinationals are currently placing enormous attention and economic efforts to support this movement. There will also be a public database of certified companies. Having your company name available on this database will show that you are pro-active in your approach in achieving gender equality, attracting positive public opinion.
- Attracting and retaining talent: Individuals prefer to work in a place where they feel everyone is equally valued. Therefore, taking a pro-active step to show solidarity and support for gender equality may allow you to attract and retain talent.
- Financial benefits: As mentioned in our last update (above), companies will have a contribution exemption up to EUR 50,000 per year for each company.
- Business opportunities: The award may bring other business opportunities such as award score in public tenders.
DLA Piper Italy has set up a team of specialised professionals in preparing and advising companies to obtain gender equality certification, through preparatory audits, specific training and drafting of all the necessary documentation, as well as assistance during the certifying body's audit.
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