The introduction examines gendered parental roles and family policy, highlighting research gaps – particularly regarding fathers as caregivers. While gender equality is a recognised goal, inequalities deepen when starting a family due to the gendered division of work. Parental leave policies emerge as a key factor in fostering paternal involvement, and the analysis traces the shift from the traditional male breadwinner model toward a more balanced division of work and caregiving. The introduction thus establishes the foundation for an exploration of how family policies are connected with the distribution of time and responsibilities among parents.