A prominent Helsinki gentlemen's club has reaffirmed its men-only membership policy. The decision triggered mass resignations from the club's leadership team.
The Finnish Club of Helsinki voted Thursday on whether to admit women members. Nearly two-thirds of members supported the change, but the vote fell short of the required 75% majority needed to amend club rules.
Club chairman Veli-Pekka Dufva announced his resignation following the vote. He called the result 'a huge disappointment' in a statement to media.
Seven other board members will also step down from their positions. Only one member of the nine-person leadership team will remain.
The club's rules have stipulated male-only membership since the 1960s. Changing the regulations requires a supermajority under Finnish association law.
This marks the second time in recent years that the club has rejected admitting women. A similar vote last year also failed despite receiving about 70% support.
The controversy highlights Finland's ongoing struggle with gender equality in private institutions. Many Nordic countries have moved away from gender-exclusive clubs, making this stance increasingly rare in the region.
Political leaders previously resigned from the club in protest over its membership policies. The latest resignations suggest internal pressure for reform continues to grow despite the failed vote.