1: Jobs and Unemployment

To emerge from the recession without unnecessary job losses or permanent unemployment.

Other Information:

Towards sustainable growth fostering employment -- The Government’s goal is to steer Finland through the recession in the best condition possible. To this end, we will intensify our measures taken to prevent the prolongation of unemployment periods for those who will, or who already have, become unemployed (Statement of the Finnish Government, 24 February 2009). The goal is to emerge from the recession without unnecessary job losses or permanent unemployment. At the same time, preparations are underway to meet future labour needs. The avoidance of lay-offs and continued competence development should be viewed as opportunities, since the future may bring a labour shortage. Long-term development activities must also be continued in more difficult times. Steps taken in order initiate a downward trend in youth unemployment, to assist in the re-employment of people affected by layoffs or terminations, and to support entrepreneurship are of extreme importance and must be intensified. Activities are being planned so that, when the economy and labour de-mand recover, a suitable labour force is available to meet companies’ needs. By strengthening employment and counselling services and increasing training, a decline can be initiated in youth unemployment. Establishing young people in working life will be supported through pay subsidies. The primary solution with respect to young people without professional skills is employment-guaranteeing vocational training of at least secondary level. Meanwhile, highly educated unemployed young people will be assisted by employment services, and encouragement and support for entrepreneurship. Prolonged periods of unemployment as well as structural unemployment can be prevented through actions focusing on future labour force needs. Training can be increased in sectors where labour force is in demand. The Employment and Economic Development Offices ensure that efficient job seeking is begun from the outset of an unemployment period or even earlier, and that all vacancies are filled quickly. These Offices also support start-up companies established by people with a higher education, as well as their employment by growth companies. Managing structural change is emphasised during times of recession and slow growth. The ability to foresee change must be further improved, both at the national and regional levels. In the face of sudden structural change, concrete actions can be initiated immediately in order to create new jobs and promote re-employment. Entrepreneurship, employees’ change security and a functioning competitive environment are the prerequisites for successful structural change.

Stakeholder(s):

• Young People: Definition of target policies: Supporting the employment of young people

Objective(s):

1.1: Services for Young People

1.2: Pay Subsidies

1.3: Training and Employment Services

1.4: Funding

1.5: Competition and Dynamism

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