<p>Disclosed are a small-sized electromechanical conversion element, and an actuator that comprises the electromechanical conversion element. Specifically disclosed is an electromechanical conversion element (20) which comprises an expandable/contractible member (22) and a drive member (23). The expandable/contractible member (22) expands or contracts when a voltage is applied thereto. The expandable/contractible member (22) has a lateral surface that is parallel to the expansion/contraction direction thereof. The drive member (23) is provided on the lateral surface of the expandable/contractible member (22). The drive member (23) is displaced in accordance with expansion and contraction of the expandable/contractible member (22).</p>
