Keski-Pohjanmaa pioneers participatory budgeting initiative in Finland

The Keski-Pohjanmaa wellbeing area is pioneering participatory budgeting, becoming the first region in Finland to implement this approach. An increasing number of municipalities are also engaging their residents in participatory budgeting initiatives. The funds allocated for projects in these municipalities range from hundreds to millions of euros. The regional government of Soiten has announced a budget of €100,000 for the local residents to propose ideas or wishes for how the money should be utilized. The funds must be aimed at improving the health and wellbeing of residents, with a focus on the development of social, healthcare, and rescue services.

According to Jussi Salminen, the inclusion and customer service manager at Sitra, Finland’s Independence Celebration Fund, no other wellbeing areas in Finland have yet tried participatory budgeting. “This is a transfer of power to local residents: they can now influence budget planning,” Salminen noted, adding that other regions are expected to follow suit eventually.

Salminen believes the €100,000 budget is appropriate, stating, “It brings impact. A smaller amount would have certainly felt different.”

There are specific requirements for proposals: they must pertain to Soiten’s mission as a wellbeing area, which involves providing health services. Proposals should align with the area’s values and strategy and must not be illegal. For instance, ideas opposing the digitization of services would be rejected. Additionally, funding cannot support the activities of organizations or associations.

Residents have until November 11 to submit their proposals online. The regional government will then select ten initiatives for a public vote. The most popular ideas will be implemented next year.