site.btaVP Iotova, International Students Discuss EU's World Role, Gender Equality

Vice President Iliana Iotova met with international student members of the Association Bourgogne Balkans Express here, the Presidency press service reported on Wednesday. The forum's agenda included the political status quo in Bulgaria, the role of the European Union on the world stage and gender equality in various professional fields.

Iotova was hopeful that after the June 9 snap elections, a stable government would be formed, united by the interests of the people.

On the topic of corruption and the rule of law, the Vice President stated that a pan-European approach is needed, because no country can cope with corruption alone. She added: "Before appropriate legislation [gets implemented], a general intolerance towards corruption must be cultivated."

Iotova stated that when traditional parties cannot meet people's expectations and offer effective solutions, populist movements and parties gain popularity. She then criticized the EU for its ineffective handling of the migration crisis. Iotova stated that the Treaty of Lisbon lacks in terms of defence and security.

On the topic of gender equality in the workforce, Iotova said that she was against the allocation of jobs according to gender, as "Good education and literacy are what matters, not whether you are a man or a woman."