The comprehensive reform of the Act on the Promotion of Immigrant Integration (Integration Act) will enter into force at the beginning of 2025 when the main responsibility for integration will be transferred from the state to municipalities. On 4 April 2024, the Government submitted a proposal to Parliament on changes to the reform based on the Government Programme. For example, the imputed reimbursement period for municipalities and wellbeing services counties would be shortened to strengthen general government finances.

On 22 February 2024, the Government made a decision on four employment areas. All future employment areas are now known.

On 21 November 2023, the ministerial working group on employment and entrepreneurship discussed the formation of employment areas. A total of 44 employment areas will be established in Finland. Most of the areas reported by municipalities fulfilled the requirements of the Act, but for six areas it is proposed that an application for an exemption be approved.

Municipalities or municipal co-management areas have submitted their notifications concerning the establishment of employment areas to the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment.

The Urban Policy Committee aims to strengthen the partnership and dialogue between the central government, cities and urban regions. Minister of Local and Regional Government Anna-Kaisa Ikonen chairs the Committee.