Strategy of the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health Group

The Ministry of Social Affairs and Health updated its strategy in early 2026 to respond to changes in the operating environment. The strategy was updated in cooperation with the agencies and public bodies in the Ministry’s branch of government. 

Vision

Our vision is a sustainable and safe welfare society where everyone can have faith in the future. 

Mission

Our mission is to build wellbeing together. We support people’s health, functioning and livelihoods through timely and sufficient services and benefits.

Values

Our activities are based on justice, courage and trust.  

• Justice: we operate in an equitable manner, respecting the equality of all people.
• Courage: we have the courage to embrace change and address difficult issues based on our expertise and research-based knowledge. 
• Trust: we take a transparent, inclusive and cooperative approach to promoting a cohesive and safe society.

Means of exerting influence

Our means of exerting influence: 

• Cooperation: We cooperate across sectors in a solution-oriented manner.
• Guidance: We strengthen the effectiveness and performance of our activities through interactive guidance.
• Legislation: We prepare legislation that meets high standards and anticipates changes in society.
• Communications: We communicate actively and effectively. 

Operating principles

Principles guiding our activities:

• We promote non-discrimination and gender equality.
• We take social, economic and ecological sustainability into account in all of our activities. 
• We make decisions based on reliable information.
• Technology and data support proactive innovation activities.
• We are active and proactive in exerting influence in the EU and globally.

Impact objectives

Our impact objectives are closely linked to operational and financial planning and monitoring in the Government and the Ministry’s administrative branch. The impact objectives guide the administrative branch in preparing for the next government term. 

The impact objectives will be included in the Ministry’s action plan and in the performance agreements of the agencies and public bodies in the Ministry’s administrative branch from the beginning of 2028. 

Our impact objectives are: 

1. We strengthen social cohesion among the population and reduce inequality.
2. We safeguard livelihoods and health and social services in a timely, effective and sustainable manner. 
3. We promote people’s ability to work and function and their participation in working life. 
4. We strengthen the resilience and comprehensive security of society. 

• Ministry’s administrative branch