Economic Council
The Economic Council of Finland, chaired by the Prime Minister, is a body for facilitating co-operation between the Government, the Bank of Finland and major interest groups. It discusses economic and social issues that are of central importance to the success of the nation.
The Economic Council aims to strengthen and deepen broad-based, analytical discussion prior to the taking of economic policy decisions relating to the growth, balance and structure of the economy.
Under a decision of Parliament, the Economic Council also acts as a forum for dialogue between the Government, the social partners and the Bank of Finland concerning the monetary policy of the European Central Bank. The Council participates in cooperation among the economic and social councils of European Union Member States.
The issues discussed by the Economic Council relate to the following subject matters:
- Changes in Finland’s economic environment and the consequent challenges and difficulties to readjust.
- Efficient use of the resources of the national economy and ensuring medium and long-term competitiveness.
- Growth and employment policy in the short and medium term.
- The public sector and division of welfare.
- The Economic Council has its meetings usually once a month. Studies and reports compiled for the Economic Council and expert introductions form the basis for the debate at the meetings. The discussions in the Council are confidential.
The Secretariat of the Economic Council operating in the Prime Minister’s Office helps the Economic Council to implement its function. The Secretariat is lead by the Secretary General of the Economic Council.
Term of Office
From May 8, 2008 to May 7, 2010. Members of the Government, however, remain in the Council only for the duration of their ministerial term.
Secretariat
Vesa Vihriälä
State Under-Secretary for Economic Affairs
Prime Minister's Office
Tel. +358 9 1602 2171
vesa.vihriala@vnk.fi
Pekka Sinko
Economist
Prime Minister's Office
Tel. +358 9 1602 2177
pekka.sinko@vnk.fi