About Association of finnish local and regional authorities (kuntaliitto)
The Association of Finnish Local and Regional Authorities, also known as Kuntaliitto, is a bilingual interest group that represents the municipalities and cities of Finland. It serves as an expert and developer of municipal services, providing support to local governments in their efforts to improve the quality of life for their citizens.
Kuntaliitto was established in 1933 with the aim of promoting cooperation between municipalities and cities across Finland. Today, it has over 300 member municipalities and cities, making it one of the largest interest groups in the country.
One of Kuntaliitto's primary roles is to act as an advocate for its members at both national and international levels. It works closely with government officials to ensure that municipal interests are taken into account when new policies are being developed. Additionally, Kuntaliitto represents its members on various committees and working groups within the European Union.
In addition to advocacy work, Kuntaliitto provides a wide range of services designed to support local governments in their day-to-day operations. These include training programs for municipal employees, research projects aimed at improving service delivery, and consulting services on issues such as urban planning and environmental management.
Kuntaliitto also plays a key role in promoting innovation within local government. Through its Innovation Center program, it provides funding and support for projects aimed at developing new approaches to service delivery or addressing emerging challenges facing municipalities.
Overall, Kuntaliitto is an essential organization for anyone interested in understanding how local government works in Finland. Its expertise on municipal issues makes it a valuable resource not only for its members but also for policymakers looking to develop effective policies that benefit all citizens.