Mari Kiviniemi

"When improving gender equality, it is of utmost importance that the whole of society works for it. But it is also essential that we, women, make our demands and put our foot down decisively."

"Don’t hesitate to take risks. It is often needed if you want to achieve something. Remember also that it is ok to fail, and that you can learn a lot from your mistakes."

"Equality is not simply an option: it has to be achieved and efforts must not stop until it is so."

"Public administration and services hold a key position in achieving inclusive growth. It must be possible to offer citizens an opportunity to build the future they want, and the administration must be lighter, more transparent and more innovative than before."

"The economy must grow, but economic growth is not a value in itself; it is primarily a way of increasing the well-being of people and their participation in the functioning of the society."