Considering the significant gender inequalities that exist in the Western Balkans (WB), it is essential that the IPA III Regulation include clear requirements and accountability mechanisms for furthering gender equality, including in relation to programming. The original draft IPA III Regulation lacked attention to gender equality; it was only referred to twice. This brief contains recommendations for better mainstreaming gender equality within the IPA III Regulation, towards realizing EU commitments to furthering gender equality.