RAISING SENSITIVITY: Mr Bert Bjarland worked with men's groups in Finland for 20 years.

Mr Bert Bjarland, who spent 20 years working with men's groups in Finland, is hoping to find members for a new association that will allow men to discuss hopes, fears and issues such as masculinity and gender equality.

'Men are not very sensitive to certain issues. We need our own space to reflect on the difference between sex and gender. They are not one and the same thing!' said the father of three daughters.

While there are over 50 women's groups here, there are only a handful for men. Most act as support networks for fathers and divorcees.

But Mr Bjarland wants his association, called the Men's Gender Awareness Group, to tackle pressing social issues. It will be affiliated to the Association of Women for Action and Research, unless members decide to branch out.

Mr Bjarland said that Singapore has a growing number of independent women and couples struggling to keep marriages intact while balancing career and family. Discussing those problems can go a long way towards bridging the divide between the sexes.

'Gender equality is not just about women. Men are an equal part of it,' he said.

This approach has eased tensions in Finland, he said. 'Sharing a life together with an independent woman is a challenge, and bringing up children together: It is tough for both. The men's groups have sensitised many of us to become better human beings.'

His group's first meeting will be held at the National Library at 7pm today.