The Conference Men and Gender Equality – Towards Progressive Policies was held in Helsinki on 5–6 October 2006. The conference formed a part of the Finnish EU Presidency programme and its organisation was the responsibility of the Finnish Ministry of Social Affairs and Health in cooperation with the European Commission. The Conference gathered together experts in the theme of men and gender equality from different parts of the European Union.

By organising the Conference on Men and Gender Equality, the Finnish EU Presidency wanted to highlight the important role of men in promoting gender equality. The starting point was that by paying more attention to the relationship between men and gender equality, we could increase men’s contribution to the promotion of gender equality as well as address some problems men in particular are facing. This, in turn, would promote gender equality and, most importantly, the status of women.

During the Conference, the main focus was on policies, i.e. what has been done and what should be done concerning men and gender equality. The Conference concentrated on the themes of 1) reduction of segregation in education and training, 2) gender mainstreaming in health policies and practices, 3) violence, and 4) reconciliation of work and family life. This report pulls together the presentations given at the Conference. Furthermore, it includes the reports of the discussion in the working groups.