This Act does not address men and women equally in all of its regulations and norms. Instead, it focuses on women because of the ongoing structural disadvantages they face. An example of this would be the rule that only women are entitled to elect equal treatment officers and can become equal treatment officers themselves. Men, in contrast, are encouraged to take opportunities that enable better compatibility between family and work. 

The scope of BGleiG is regulated in § 2 in conjunction with § 3 No. 5, No. 9 BGleiG. This Act applies directly to public offices. Federal enterprises shall ensure the application of this Act accordingly.

This Act does not apply to the private sector and public offices of the Länder. The respective Land shall pass its own Equality Acts for its administration and courts.