Acts for gender equality at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs

Press release 235/2016
12.12.2016

Finland celebrates the centenary of its independence in 2017. During the past century, the poor and war-beaten country has risen to prosperity and become a wellbeing democracy that regularly ranks among the top countries in the international comparisons.

Gender equality and women’s participation in economic life and political decision-making have been the key factors behind our success.

The Ministry for Foreign Affairs will participate in the campaign 100 Acts for Gender Equality organised by the National Council of Women of Finland and the Council for Gender Equality as part of the celebrations and official programme of the centenary of Finland’s independence.

“We pledge to carry out at least 100 acts for gender equality,” says Ambassador for Equality Issues Anne Lammila.

Ministers Timo Soini and Kai Mykkänen will participate in the campaign, as will the Secretary of State, the Under-Secretaries of State, the Directors General and the Deputy Directors General of the Ministry. The Finnish missions abroad and all the departments of the Foreign Ministry will also carry out at least one act for gender equality each. The acts can be either small or big. The purpose of them is to highlight the significance of gender equality for the development of independent Finland.

“Equality means a lot to us and brings us joy. We challenge all the other ministries to take part in the campaign as well,” says Lammila.

The Foreign Ministry’s campaign for gender equality will also be visible in social media.

#tasaarvo100

#tasaarvoteko

#Suomi100

Inquiries: Anne Lammila, Ambassador for Equality Issues, tel. +358 295 351352.

The Foreign Ministry’s email addresses are of the format [email protected]