politics and the economy, by means of their contribution within women's associations or in women's groups and through their activities in the political parties and the trade unions. The number of women in the parties and in the trade unions, as well as in many women's associations, was growing. 71. She now wished to conclude her general comments by responding to the question on international activities at the European level. The evolution of the European Community towards a single market was of great significance for women in Europe. The European Community had so far adopted five guidelines on equal opportunity in employment and social security and had implemented two medium-term programmes of action, The Federal Republic was actively involved in developing a European women's policy in the European Community, for example, through its contribution within the Commission. The Federal Government was also making an active contribution in the context of the Council of Europe. 72. She wished now to respond to the specific points raised by Committee members under the individual articles of the Convention. I. I • CEDAW/C/SR.l57 English Page 12 (Mrs. Lehr, Federal Republic of Germany) 73. In connection with article 2 (c), a Committee member had asked what penalties were possible in the event of violations of the principle of equal rights. In the event of discrimination constituting an infringement of the law the victim could have recourse through the courts. That applied, for example, in the case of infringement of labour laws. The equal-rights offices at the federal level and of the Lander and the municipalities could not impose any penalties, as the ombudspersons in the Scandinavian countries could. However, since they did form part of the administrative machinery, they had other ways in which they could take steps with a view to eliminating the underlying causes of discrimination. The 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be discussing the role of women in society, particularly in relation to politics and the economy. It mentions women's associations, political parties, trade unions, and government initiatives, which suggests that the topic is more focused on social and economic issues rather than purely environmental or scientific ones.

**Category**
Employment, International trade