Regional development priorities
The Government approves the national regional development priorities (regional development decision) for its term of office. The regional development decision sets out the central government objectives that the ministries are committed to and that are taken into account in the steering of each administrative branch. The Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment is responsible for overall coordination of regional development at national level.
Regional development decision 2020–2023
The regional development decision approved by the Government on 19 March 2020 creates preconditions for an economically, ecologically, socially and culturally sustainable future. It also safeguards the wellbeing of residents and provides better operating conditions for business and industry 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 central government and regions, within the regions, between public and private sector organisations, and between organisations and citizens. Increasing interaction promotes the effectiveness of regional development.
The regional development decision 2020–2023: Sustainable and vital regions (link)
Preparation of the regional development decision 2024–2027
The new regional development decision will be prepared by the end of 2023.
Read more about the preparation of the regional development decision 2024–2027
Further information: petra.stenfors(at)gov.fi