Architecture affects the wellbeing of people and nature in significant ways. Good architecture and design stand the test of time and can be converted into new use if necessary. These are key themes in Finland’s new architectural policy programme. The programme sets out objectives and measures for developing the sustainability of the built environment comprehensively between 2022 and 2035.

The Ministry of Education and Culture and the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare have updated two recommendations related to the prevention of the COVID-19 epidemic. One of the recommendations applies to providers of early childhood education and care and school education, and the second to providers of general upper secondary education and vocational education and training, liberal adult education, basic education for adults, universities of applied sciences and universities.

On Tuesday 18 January, the Government held an extensive discussion on the need to update the COVID-19 strategy in response to changes in the situation caused by the rapidly spreading Omicron variant. The discussions were based on expert assessments the Government received on the epidemiological situation and the burden on medical care in the coming weeks, and on views about the need to amend the current operating strategy. The Government was also briefed on the status of preparations to expand the use of the COVID-19 passport.

Finland needs more work-based and education-based immigration to help companies find enough experts and to strengthen Finland’s vitality and public finances. The roadmap for education-based and work-based immigration is a long-term action plan to achieve the objectives set for immigration of specialists, entrepreneurs, researchers and students.