The Government Programme
Prime Minister Matti Vanhanen's second Cabinet
The Government Programme is an Action Plan agreed by the parties represented in the Government.
A responsible, caring and rewarding Finland
The underlying values of the programme of the new blue-green Government are a balance between man and nature, responsibility and freedom, caring and rewarding, and education and competence.
Climate change and globalisation reinforce the inter-dependence between nations and citizens. Global development issues, promotion of international security, forced human displacement and emigration, enlargement of the European Union, and the deepening of cooperation within the European community will affect Finland as well.
Trans-boundary environmental problems and an ageing population will introduce to political decision-making a new dimension spanning several generations. Responses to changes in the division of labour within the global economy are also needed.
By reacting to these challenges in a timely fashion, Finland can both prosper and also shoulder its share of responsibility for finding solutions to global problems.
Finland belongs to everyone, regardless of place of residence, life situation, mother tongue, or ethnic background. Citizens must be guaranteed the right to have a say, participate and be involved in decision-making.
A new sense of community is required. As it continues to build Finland’s welfare society, the Government will seek to clarify the division of responsibilities between individuals, communities and society as a whole.
The individual’s basic social security must be strengthened. Social services and aid should target people in greatest need of assistance.
Creativity, competence and a high standard of education are necessary prerequisites for the success of Finland and the Finnish people. The school system must reinforce everyone’s capacity for learning.
A higher employment rate and responsible management of public finances create the foundation for improving the standard and quality of life in Finland. Work, entrepreneurship and enterprise in general should always be economically rewarding.
The labour market should be renewed on the tripartite basis. A stable labour market will reinforce consensus in Finland.
In order to develop workplace communities, there must be effective cooperation between employers and employees. To foster the wellbeing of citizens, the Government will also seek to promote sound coordination between work and other facets of life.
Equality in society at large and in the labour market in particular calls for determined efforts. Respect for others and equality of opportunity constitute the foundation of a just society.
An approach transcending generational boundaries and national borders is the guiding principle of the programme to be pursued by the blue-green Government. In revitalizing Finland, the Government aspires a safe and secure transformation implemented with due
regard for national unity.