1. Gender equality to be proud of

Finland is one of the world’s leading countries when it comes to gender equality.  It was the first European country to grant women the right to vote in 1906, and the following year, 19 women took their seats as members of parliament. A moment in history, you could say.

The commitment to gender parity remains strong. In 2024, Finland ranked second in the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report, behind Iceland.

While Finland has made great efforts, it’s important to acknowledge there’s still work to be done. What matters is that the country and the city of Helsinki remain committed to advancing gender equality.

2. Gender equality in Finland’s labour market

Men and women in Finland are nearly equally represented in the labour market. The employment rate was 73.9 % for men and 73.8% for women in 2022. Pretty close, right?

In Finland, promoting gender equality isn’t just encouraged, it’s required. The Equality Act obligates all organisations to promote gender equality in a targeted and systematic manner, known as gender mainstreaming. In practice, this means every administrative unit treats the promotion of gender equality as a top priority.

3. Career compatible with kids

For Finns, having children doesn’t mean stepping away from your career. High-quality, affordable childcare and family leave policies that encourage equal sharing between parents making it all possible.

Free school lunches for kids and other supportive measures help make balancing work and family life easier. It’s a system that benefits everyone – parents, kids, and workplaces alike. 

4. Equality isn’t just a goal, it’s the law

Gender discrimination is a crime in Finland, with laws mandating that everyone be treated equally.  Discrimination based on gender, including gender expression, is strictly prohibited. For instance, men cannot be paid more than women for the same job, and women cannot be dismissed due to pregnancy. Additionally, any workplace with over 30 employees must have an equality plan in place.

While these laws provide a framework, it’s up to individuals and organisations to ensure they are upheld and equality becomes a lived reality for everyone.

5. Equally protected and not discriminated

Gender equality is one part of Finland’s commitment to equality. The Non-Discrimination Act protects against discrimination based on age, nationality, religion, political beliefs, health, disability, or sexual orientation. It’s a law designed to ensure that no one is treated unfairly or held back by prejudice.

Employers are also required to foster accessibility in their workplaces. This means creating optimal conditions for everyone, including those with disabilities – for instance, ensuring wheelchair accessibility.

6. Equality ensured in the city

Helsinki encourages its citizens to shape the city’s future through inclusive decision-making platforms such as Elderly Citizens Council, Council on Disability and Equality and Non-discrimination Commission. 

The Elderly Citizens Council ensures the voices of older residents are heard in planning and monitoring city services. Established in 1982, the Council on Disability enables individuals with disabilities to participate and advocate for improved accessibility, such as enhancing mobility solutions. The Gender Equality Commission addresses gender-related issues, while the Non-Discrimination Commission works to promote fairness and equal treatment across all aspects of city life.

7. Lifting inspiring role models

Helsinki has been home to many inspirational figures who have been paving the way for progress. Take Tarja Halonen, President of Finland from 2000 to 2012, widely admired for her dedication to human rights. Even after her presidency, Halonen has continued to work for these causes. Fun fact: she served as chairperson of the Finnish LGBTIQ rights organization SETA in the 1980s.

We can’t overlook Jani Toivola, who made history in 2011 as Finland’s first Black member of parliament, or Sanna Marin, the former Prime Minister who became the world’s youngest serving head of government, leading a coalition of five parties all led by women.

Equality is always a work in progress, but Finland and Helsinki remain committed to strengthening the freedom to be equal for everyone.