Finland's long-term work in improving working conditions and employment preconditions so that ageing employees can remain at work has come in for international recognition. The German Carl Bertelsmann Foundation made its international award to Finland in September.

As the population ages, public expenditure increases, the work input decreases and the preconditions for economic growth deteriorate. The shortage of capable labour is a threat to the growth of wellbeing and productivity.

The Bertelsmann Foundation praised Finland for the early recognition of the problem with an ageing workforce and the extensive cooperation with which the challenge has been tackled.

"We have a resolute national strategy for the problem that has been put into effect in the form of cooperation among the Government, trade unions, employers and employees," says Eeva-Liisa Inkeroinen," a deputy director at the Confederation of Finnish Industries (EK).

Age problem the starting point

The National Ageing Programme implemented between 1997 and 2002 aimed at improving the working conditions of ageing employees and maintaining the employment preconditions. The programme supported older employees in coping at work and remaining in employment.

During the programme a wide-ranging debate was kindled about the position, opportunities and strengths of the ageing workforce and several research and training programmes were started.
"After the programme several policy decisions were made, such as the pension reform that has been praised by the Bertelsmann Foundation. Attempts will be made to guarantee the availability of labour through, for example, an immigration programme. Taxation on earned income has been reduced for incentive purposes," Inkeroinen explains.

Measures to continue

Inkeroinen says, however, that measures will still continue. "Employment must be improved and work incentives increased in relation to social security. Rigid systems, particularly on the labour market side, must be reformed. Courage will be needed for the changes and for carrying them out.

"Wellbeing is constructed on work and successful companies. That is why the conditions under which companies operate must be good and competitive in terms of costs.

"The power of decision must be transferred to the company level, where competition is faced. Attention must also be paid to work motivation," Inkeroinen continues.

>> www.bertelsmann-foundation.org