The European Union has ruled that by mid-2026, companies in all 27 EU nations will have to oblige to a quota for the number of women on their boards.
With the quota in place, companies would need at least 40% of women on their non-executive board seats, or a 33% combination of executive and non-executive members.
The law was agreed upon by the EU governing body in its first-ever quota for women in the workplace, and comes in an effort to improve gender equality in the EU.
The plan was first initiated 10 years ago but hit a wall. However, Germany and France have recently come forward to show support and gain traction for the movement again.
The quota does not impose any penalties for not achieving the target, though public perception will likely drive companies to strive toward equal opportunities.
The next, and expected last, round of negotiations are to be held between the European Parliament and the 27 countries and is expected to reach a deal. This could open the doors for so many women whose potential has been shunned.