Feminism, masculinism and Nordic gender equality
According to the panel, gender equality and feminism is still perceived, despite 40 years of Nordic gender equality co-operation, as a controversial and at times provocative subject. Therefore the panel believes it is important to introduce gender equality values early, in pre-school, school and education.
Vigdís Finnbogadóttir expressed particular concern for the men who drop out of school or education at a young age.
"Of course I am a feminist, but also a masculinist - I fight for gender equality for everyone. Men have been a bit afraid of women, when they notice how strong women are. It's quite a natural phenomenon to ignore what you are afraid of", said Finnbogadóttir.
"On the other hand, it is gratifying to see that more and more young Icelandic men are focusing on how important it is to take good care of their children. We have seen a clear change in attitude to the concept of masculinity", pointed out Eygló Harðardóttir.
Man to man on equality
Changing attitudes takes time, sometimes too long for the good of society. Margot Wallström struck a blow for positive discrimination in the debate.
"Sometimes you have to resort to positive discrimination to change a power situation when it would otherwise take decades or even longer to get better female representation. I believe that we have to use the tools that are available", said Wallström.
Long and intensive preparations are, according to Vigdís Finnbogadóttir, the answer to how the Nordic Region has actually succeeded in having both female presidents and prime ministers elected before many other countries in the world. For the rest of the world to be helped by this development, she proposes that:
"Men in top positions around the world should meet regularly only to discuss gender equality. If you could get the world's great men to a male conference like this, attitudes would change quicker", said Finnbogadóttir.
