Vanhanen's Cabinet 2003 - 2007
The aim of the Government Information Society Programme is to boost competitiveness and productivity, to promote social and regional equality and to improve citizens' well-being and quality of life through effective utilisation of information and communications technologies. The Information Society Policy Programme aims to maintain Finland’s status as one of the leading producers and users of information and communications technology.
The Programme is based on close cooperation between public and private sectors. After all, the targets of the Government Information Society Programme can only be achieved if there is successful cooperation within the Government administration and between the Government, local authorities, business and other actors. The Information Society Council and its sections contribute in a significant manner to this cooperation.
The Government will promote the development of the information society by:
- ensuring that citizens have access to fast broadband connections
- improving citizens’ information society skills
- reforming operating models and structures
- developing Government services and administration and putting them on an electronic basis
- promoting similar developments in local authorities and the business sector
- taking educational policy measures
- investing in research and product development
- supporting other actors in the information society
- participating in important projects promoting the information society
- issuing relevant legislative measures
Seven sections, over a hundred projects
The implementation of the Information Society Programme is divided into seven sections. The sections cover over a hundred projects and measures that are managed by different ministries. The measures will be carried out or initiated during the term of office of Prime Minister Vanhanen's Government.
The Information Society Programme seven sub-sectors are:
- telecommunication infrastructure and digital television
- citizens' ability to utilise the information society and security
- training, working life, research and development
- utilisation of ICT in public administration
- electronic commerce and digital contents
- legislative measures
- international dimension
Management of the programme
Minister responsible for coordination of the programme
Prime Minister Matti Vanhanen
Ministerial group
Prime Minister Matti Vanhanen, chairman
Minister of Defence Seppo Kääriäinen
Minister of Transport and Communications Susanna Huovinen
Minister of Education Antti Kalliomäki
Coordinate Minister for Finance Ulla-Maj Wideroos
Ms Katrina Harjuhahto-Madetoja, Programme Director
Prime Minister's Office

