Rural and island policy

Rural and island policy

Rural policy and island policy are part of the package of national regional development. Rural policy aims for a vibrant and prosperous countryside which takes full advantage of its resources. The measures on national rural policy are guided by the Rural Policy Programme (currently drawn up for 2021–2027). It is implemented under the leadership of the Rural Policy Council (MANE) and in broad-based cooperation with a number of interest groups. 

Island policy is one of the oldest elements of regional policy in Finland. A key instrument for island policy is the National Archipelago Programme, which is produced by the Island Committee (SANK).  The current National Archipelago Programme has been drawn up for the years 2024–2027 and is guided by a vision of a thriving archipelago now and in the future.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry is responsible for rural and island policy. However, the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment is in charge of integrating the policies with overall regional development.

Inquiries:
Petra Stenfors, Chief Specialist, Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, petra.stenfors(at)gov.fi (regional development) 
Antonia Husberg, Ministerial Adviser, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, antonia.husberg(at)gov.fi (rural policy)
Elina Auri, Chief Specialist, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry elina.auri(at)gov.fi (island policy)