Kansanvalta.fi

Initiatives to municipal authorities provide citizens with an opportunity for direct participation. Municipal residents have the right to submit initiatives to municipal authorities in matters related to their activities. In practice an initiative is a tool for citizens to alert decision-makers to address an issue or solve a problem.

Local residents representing at least five per cent of those entitled to vote may propose a municipal referendum.

Those submitting initiatives have the right to be informed of action taken as a result of their initiative

Many Finnish municipalities provide the opportunity to submit initiatives on their website. Initiatives can be submitted electronically in cities including Espoo, Vantaa and Oulu.

All municipal initiatives must be considered by the local authority. Persons submitting them must be informed of action taken as a result of their initiative. At least once a year the municipal council must be informed of all initiatives submitted in matters within its purview and of action taken as a result. Consequently, initiatives made by local residents are always considered.

Initiatives help citizens bring issues up for decision-makers

Initiatives provide all citizens at least a formally equal opportunity to express their views and bring issues up for decision-makers.Initiatives also perform the task of developing civic skills as they encourage citizens to consider specific political issues.