Equality in working life

Equality in working life is promoted particularly in pay, working conditions, terms of employment, and career development. The Act on Equality Between Men and Women prohibits discrimination based on gender and requires the promotion of gender equality.

The law also prohibits discrimination based on gender identity and gender expression.

Reducing the pay gap

On average women in Finland are paid about 84 % of what men earn.

About half of the pay gap is because men and women work in different fields and with different tasks. But women earn roughly 10% less than men even though they have the same training, are in the same sector, have the same tasks and belong to the same age group.

Government and social partners are committed to furthering pay equality. 

Beyond men's work and women's work

The labour market continues to be divided into sectors and professions for men and women. Training is also divided by gender.

The aim of Finland's equality policy is to reduce segregation. The aim is also to increase the proportion of women decision-makers in business life and top government positions.

Equality is a fundamental right

Other forms of discrimination are also prohibited by law.

Further information on equality in Finland:

Further information

Tanja Auvinen, Deputy Director General 
Ministry of Social Affairs and Health, Department for Work and Gender Equality / TTO, Gender Equality Unit / TASY 0295163715