Espoo youth describe a safe city despite headlines on vandalism

Espoo has declared itself Finland’s capital for children and youth, prioritising education and extracurricular activities despite a €70 million savings programme that spares school resources, Yle reports.

At Matinkylä sports park on a cloudy summer morning, children play football, shout in playgrounds, and take turns at the skate park. Ten-year-old Anselmi Mikkola, ending his football training, says his neighbourhood has a nice library and football pitches he sometimes visits.

Recent headlines have focused on vandalism and robberies by under-15s in areas like Suurpelto. Police told Yle in late May that groups of around 100 minors are involved in robberies, drug dealing, and assaults. Nine-year-old Maverick Garner says he once encountered youth vandalism but still feels Espoo is safe and pleasant.

At the sports park playground, Hugo Valkama, Olivia Lönn, and Emma Lokkila—all from Espoo—agree the city is a good place to live. Lönn enjoys outdoor activities, Lokkila has made good friends, and Valkama praises the many playgrounds. Eleven-year-old Hugo Palm highlights the city’s good schools and skate parks.

Outi Ala-Kojola, chair of Espoo’s youth council, says young people are well heard in decision-making. “We are listened to very well. I believe that’s why young people thrive here.” She calls the city’s declaration as a children’s capital a positive step, citing quality education, local environments, and diverse hobbies.

Mayor Kai Mykkänen says the commitment includes extra funding for schools in areas with many recent immigrants, providing more teachers and adult support per class. Espoo has pledged more resources than any other Finnish city and will not cut education staff despite budget pressures. Mykkänen hopes the approach inspires political parties ahead of parliamentary elections, noting that a few large cities hold about a third of Finland’s children’s futures.