Society is not developed in four-year cycles

Finnish societal policy seems to operate on the rhythm of electoral cycles, leading to frequent changes in direction. While government changes and shifting political priorities are inherent to democracy, the constant alteration of societal policy before the effects of prior decisions are fully understood or evaluated leaves the long-term consequences unclear.

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Finnish societal policy seems to be following the rhythm of electoral cycles.

The true impacts of many reforms and cuts are not immediately apparent in the next budget or even the subsequent electoral term. This is especially true for social and healthcare services, where the consequences of decisions might only manifest years or even decades later. What appears as a saving today could result in increased service needs, human suffering, or escalating costs in the future.

Preventive work offers a clear example of this phenomenon. When the need for support is identified early and addressed promptly, success is measured by the avoidance of more demanding and costly services later on. However, the effectiveness of preventive work often remains hidden, despite its potentially immense societal and human significance. Therefore, the impact of decisions related to preventive measures should be carefully evaluated.

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The true impacts of many reforms and cuts do not become visible in the next budget, or even in the next electoral term.

The author, Jenni Henttonen, a master of social sciences, argues for more long-term thinking in societal policy, particularly concerning issues whose effects will only become visible years down the line. While political priorities may change, the development of society should not restart with every election outcome. A thriving society is built not on constant directional shifts, but on the ability to identify effective solutions and the courage to allow them time to take effect.

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A well-functioning society is not built on constant changes of direction, but on the ability to identify effective solutions and the courage to give them time to have an effect.