County elections

You are probably aware of the upcoming elections? You can vote in advance 12-18.1, and on the actual election day 23.1. But what is it really about?

The county election marks the beginning of a new division of responsibility for social and health care, as well as the rescue services. Until now, it has been the municipality's responsibility to organize these kinds of services, but now the responsibility will be transferred to 21 wellbeing service counties + Helsinki. The Åland islands is not affected by the reform.

As a student, you may primarily use the Finnish Student Health Services but that does not mean that this election doesn’t concern you. For example, all kinds of specialized health care services, social care, services for children and families, mental health care, substance abuse services and the rescue service are examples of helping hands we all need, but FSHS doesn’t provide.

Pia Liljeroth, principal lecturer at the health and welfare area in Turku, highlights how the pandemic has affected young people in particular

- Up to one fourth are struggling with mental health issues. By voting, you are involved in influencing how care and service for young people will be organized. What services do you think are important to you as a student? What kind of services do you want to have in the city where you live? Vote for a candidate who shares your values, and thinks like you on issues that are important to you, Liljeroth urges.

In other words; now is your chance to influence vital issues. Find yourself a suitable candidate, and vote!

More information can be found here: https://vaalit.fi/en/county-elections