The resolution of the Finnish Government for the National World Heritage Strategy is based on Prime Minister Katainen’s Government Programme, which states that ’the Government will prepare a world heritage strategy’. The Cultural Environment Strategy adopted by the government resolution of 20 March 2014 and the plan for its implementation in 2014–2020 function together as a framework for the National World Heritage Strategy.

The aim of the strategy is to outline the implementation of a national world heritage policy and a world heritage agreement so that it accommodates comprehensive examination of cultural and natural heritage and the protection and conservation of Finnish world heritage sites in a sustainable and exemplary manner.

World heritage sites are a part of our mutual cultural and natural heritage and the same institutes, tools and practices are primarily responsible for conserving the sites. World heritage sites are made unique by their internationally recognised significance and status, and also the obligations related to these.

The strategy involves taking a stance on the promotion of world heritage education and awareness as well as on the role of Finland and Finnish experts in Nordic and international cooperation on the topic of world heritage. The strategy also includes examining the organisation and resourcing of tasks and responsibilities connected to world heritage and the sufficiency of the legislation currently in force.

The vision for the National World Heritage Strategy emphasises Finland’s responsibly developed world heritage policy, exemplary protection, maintenance and presentation of world heritage sites, and the idea that world heritage sites are part of the shared heritage of all citizens, and thus their vitality, authenticity and integrity must be preserved for future generations.