Gender blindness in the ‘Next Generation European Union’ funds: Projects for Economic Recovery and Transformation social economy as an exception to the rule

This study provides empirical evidence that European Union (EU)-funded economic recovery policies, in particular Next Generation EU (NGEU), reinforce rather than mitigate gender inequalities. By analysing Spain's Strategic Projects for Economic Recovery and Transformation (PERTEs) through Input–Output Models, the research shows that investments disproportionately favour male-dominated sectors, while neglecting the structural barriers that limit women's access to high-growth industries. Despite rhetorical commitments to gender equality, the allocation of recovery and resilience funds reflects the EU's past responses to crises, prioritising industrial competitiveness over social equity. However, the PERTE of the social and care economy stands out as a partial exception, with higher female participation and potential for more inclusive policies. The results support feminist critiques of macroeconomic planning and emphasize the need for structural change in economic governance. By exposing the gender biases in recovery strategies, this research underlines the urgency of incorporating gender equality into macroeconomic policy to promote truly inclusive growth.