Nature-themed event in Tampere raises concerns of political bias

A nature-themed discussion event will take place in Tampere next week, primarily featuring speakers from the National Coalition Party. The event is organized by the city of Tampere, which will also cover the participants’ fees. Speakers include the mayors of the six largest cities, two ministers, and a member of the European Parliament—most of whom belong to the National Coalition Party. Local city councilor Jouni Sirén from the Left Alliance has raised concerns, suggesting that it appears as though the city is promoting the coalition’s municipal election campaign.

The City Nature Forum will be held at Tampere Hall on September 11. Sirén reports he received a preliminary invitation back in May and questioned the speaker lineup with the city’s environmental and development director, Kari Kankaal. Sirén asked if the event was intended as a campaign kickoff for the National Coalition Party, to which Kankaal replied that city leaders happen to be from that party.

Sirén has proposed alternative speakers, such as deputy mayors or officials from other political parties, emphasizing that a broader representation would foster real discussion on environmental issues. Currently, the event lineup is monopolized by a single party, which Sirén finds concerning, noting that taxpayer money is funding this event.

Kari Kankaal defended the selection of speakers, stating that they were chosen for their positions and expertise rather than their political affiliations. Approximately two-thirds of the seminar costs, around €40,000, will be covered by the city.

Tampere’s mayor, Kalervo Kummola, added that the event aims to attract high-level decision-makers to support biodiversity initiatives, insisting that party affiliation shouldn’t overshadow the event’s purpose. He dismissed the criticism as childish and emphasized he does not consider political alignment in such matters.