The Finnish Science-for-policy Ecosystem

Publication date: May 2025

This discussion paper offers an in-depth analysis of how evidence is used in policymaking in Finland, as well as the different instruments involved. The work was inspired by the EU’s Joint Research Centre’s project “Strengthening and connecting ecosystems of science for policy across Europe” and similar reviews already made in other EU Member States including Denmark, Greece, France, Portugal, and Spain. 

The Finnish science-for-policy ecosystem includes 13 universities, 22 Universities of Applied Sciences, 12 Government Research Institutes, the Research Council of Finland, Academies of Science, science panels, boundary organisations, ministries, and ad hoc working groups among others.  

Finland’s science-for-policy ecosystem functions as a network of stakeholders and it lacks some of the formal structures that exists in other countries. The report reveals Finland’s distinctive approach to integrating scientific evidence into policymaking and calls for strategic discussions on its future.  

Discussion paper: The Finnish Science-for-Policy Ecosystem (PDF file)

Executive Summary: The Finnish Science-for-Policy Ecosystem (PDF file)