President Khurelsukh opened the Third National Mongol Er Khun conference at the State Palace on March 17, where the gathering conference addresses male health and societal roles. The event brought together more than 800 representatives from government bodies and civil society organizations. Participants also included delegates from various aimags, the capital city, and district administrations. The conference marked the third such gathering since its establishment in 2022. It operates under the direct auspices of the Mongolian presidency. The 2026 edition focused on three primary themes for discussion.
The president delivered opening remarks emphasizing traditional Mongolian values regarding manhood. He noted that Mongolians historically raised their sons to possess courage and wisdom. These men also needed far-sighted vision, broad-minded thinking, and resilient character. Additionally, traditional expectations included discipline, honesty, and faithfulness to oaths. Khurelsukh expressed pride in Mongolian men who carry forward ancestral legacies today. He specifically highlighted peacekeepers serving in global hotspots who bring recognition to Mongolian soldiers. These men elevate the homeland’s reputation across continents through their service.
Minister of Family, Labour and Social Protection, Aubakir Telukhan, presented the statistics during the conference. He stated that men constitute 49 percent of Mongolia’s total population currently. However, Mongolian men face higher accident rates and consume more alcohol than women. These factors increase their risk for cardiovascular diseases and premature death significantly. The government now implements more systematic policies targeting these specific challenges. This approach represents a shift toward evidence-based policymaking for public health. The minister’s remarks highlighted the urgent need for intervention.
Statistics presented at the conference revealed a gradual improvement in male longevity figures. At the end of 2021, average male life expectancy stood at only 66.7 years. Female life expectancy during that same period reached 76.2 years. This created a troubling gender gap of 9.5 years between men and women. By the end of 2024, male life expectancy had increased to 67.92 years. Female life expectancy also rose slightly to 77.1 years during this period. Consequently, the longevity gap narrowed by 0.32 points over three years. These incremental gains suggest policy interventions may be producing results.
Previous conferences first drew attention to this significant disparity in life expectancy. The initial gathering highlighted how Mongolian men lag behind global averages substantially. This prompted government action to address the underlying causes systematically. Since 2022, authorities have focused on improving occupational safety in high-risk sectors. Male-dominated industries, including mining, transport, and road construction, received particular attention. Building and construction sectors also became targets for enhanced safety measures. Officials also implemented policies supporting work-life balance for employees across industries.
Deputy Minister of Defense Baasandamba Dashtseden introduced a significant new initiative at the conference. The president proposed launching the national movement Ekh Oronch Mongol for 2026 through 2030. This patriotic movement aims to promote national core interests among children and youth. It also seeks to foster cherished Mongolian values in the younger generation. The initiative targets producing citizens who are healthy, educated, and ethically grounded. This long-term program complements the conference addresses male health issues directly. It represents a holistic approach to national development and character building.
The conference issued a series of policy recommendations following its deliberations. These suggestions will guide government action in the coming years. Participants discussed the traditional understanding of Mongolian manhood extensively. They also examined the leadership qualities of the modern Mongolian man in contemporary society. Additionally, they explored the value of men within family structures. These discussions produced actionable proposals for policymakers to consider implementing. The recommendations span health, education, social policy, and cultural preservation areas.
Looking ahead, the government will continue monitoring male health indicators closely. Officials aim to further narrow the longevity gap through targeted interventions. The mining sector will remain a priority for occupational safety improvements. Alcohol consumption reduction programs will likely expand in scope and reach. Cardiovascular disease prevention will also receive continued attention from health authorities. The conference addresses male health as an ongoing national priority requiring sustained effort. Future gatherings in 2028 will assess progress made since this year’s meeting. For now, participants departed with renewed commitment to addressing these critical challenges facing Mongolian society.
