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 discuss their hopes and fears, along with issues like the essence of 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 63-year-old father of three adult daughters.

While there are over 50 women's groups here, there are only a handful for men, with most acting 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 (Aware) unless members decide to branch out.

Read the full story in Wednesday's edition of The Straits Times.