This roadmap builds on the experience of the Framework Strategy for equality between women and men 2001-2005, which it assesses while emphasising the improvements needed. It describes six priority areas for the action of the European Union on equality for the period 2006-2010: equal economic independence for women and men; reconciliation of private and professional life; equal representation in decision-making; eradication of all forms of gender-based violence; elimination of gender stereotypes; and promotion of gender equality in external and development policies.