In 2023, women in the EU earned 12% less than men, prompting the EU's Pay Transparency Directive aimed at closing the gender pay gap. Business groups are pushing for exemptions for companies with 100-250 employees, which could cost women €4.8 billion annually. Salary transparency varies significantly across Europe, with the UK leading at 70% and Germany lagging at 16%. Experts emphasize that transparency is crucial for reducing the pay gap and supporting women in negotiations.