Government decision on regional development priorities: Building sustainable and vital regions
The Government has decided on Finland’s regional development priorities for 2020–2023 and objectives until 2030. The aim of regional development is to build sustainable and vital regions, while priorities emphasise the importance of sustainable development and digitalisation.
According to Prime Minister Marin’s Government Programme, regional development is based on the strengths and special characteristics of the regions. The Government’s regional development decision creates favourable conditions for an economically, ecologically, socially and culturally sustainable future, safeguards the wellbeing of residents, and provides better operating conditions for business in all regions across Finland.
Regional development is based on five priorities with sustainable development and digitalisation as the horizontal themes:
- Mitigating climate change and safeguarding biodiversity
- Building sustainable communities with good connections
- Innovating business life and accelerating R&D&I
- Making skills and education a resource for regional development
- Increasing inclusion and wellbeing and preventing inequality
Regional development requires intersectoral and interactive work to strengthen the vitality of different regions. The regional development decision underlines the importance of enhanced interaction within the government, between the state and regions, within the regions, between public and private sector organisations, and between organisations and citizens, to maximise the effectiveness of regional development.
The regional development decision was jointly prepared by ministries, regional councils and other interest groups. To make sure the objectives will be achieved, the ministries, together with the regional councils, will prepare an implementation plan that points the way for regional development measures during the government term. The impact of the coronavirus epidemic on regional development will be taken into account in the implementation plan. Any monitoring related to the decision is the responsibility of the Advisory Council on Regional Renewal, (AUNE), which is chaired by Minister of Economic Affairs Mika Lintilä.
Inquiries:
Jenny Hasu, Special Adviser to the Minister of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, tel. +358 40 658 3510
Hanna-Maria Urjankangas, Senior Specialist, Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, tel. +358 0295 063 739
More information about the regional development decision (in Finnish)