The regional development decision 2020–2023 establishes the priorities within the Government's remit to be observed during Prime Minister Sanna Marin's term of office, and objectives at the central government level to which the ministries have committed. The regional development decision steers the development of the different administrative branches and regions, and the coordination of these measures.

The aims and measures of regional policy, which is based on regional strengths and balanced regional development, are linked to the Government Programme. A dynamic, thriving and socially strong Finland will be built on the combined successes of the Greater Helsinki region, growing city regions, sub-regions and rural areas alike. In this regional development decision, the themes and strategic measures are structured into six key priorities: • Mitigating climate change and safeguarding biodiversity • Building sustainable communities with good connections • Innovating business life and accelerating R&D&I • Making skills and education a resource for regional development • Increasing inclusion and wellbeing and preventing inequality • Creating an operating model for regional development

Cross-cutting themes in all six priorities are sustainable development and digitalisation. The regional development approach referred to in the Government Programme is a regional or theme based framework of activities that corresponds to the specific characteristics of each region, devised through partnership and agreement.

Contact person at the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment: Hanna-Maria Urjankangas