EU-wide Foresight Network

One of the European Commission’s objectives is to develop foresight work in the EU. The Commission aims to integrate strategic foresight into policymaking and to create the conditions for EU policies that are prepared and equipped for future changes. The EU-wide Foresight Network was established for this purpose in May 2021.

The network brings together competence and foresight expertise from all Member States and the European Commission. Its members work together on forward-looking issues relevant to Europe’s future and support the development of public administration foresight capabilities in the EU and its Member States. The aim is to create synergies in foresight work at the national and EU level.

The network consists of two levels: the Ministers for the Future appointed by the Member States and a network of senior officials from national administrations. Minister for European Affairs and Ownership Steering Joakim Strand represents Finland in the network.

The Commission publishes an annual Strategic Foresight Report that serves as a basis for EU legislative work and policy planning. The Parliamentary Committee for the Future has issued an opinion on the Commission’s first Strategic Foresight Report, which focuses on the EU's resilience. By establishing the network, the Commission aims to make strategic foresight an integral part of the Better Regulation toolbox, including ex ante impact assessments.

Finland is a leader in foresight activities in the EU

Finland continuously develops the systematic use of foresight activities and work on the future in its national strategic preparation. In line with the Government Programme, the Government aims to increase its use of foresight and research data to support its strategic decision-making.

Finland has been developing its foresight work for around 30 years. The Committee for the Future was established in 1993, and the first Report on the Future was published that same year. Finland’s national foresight system is a prime example of the Commission’s vision for strategic foresight.