Child Ombudsman criticizes social assistance system in Finland for penalizing families

Recent reports highlight that even relatively small amounts in a child’s bank account can reduce the family’s social assistance in Finland. According to the Finnish social insurance institution, Kela, sums as little as €100 to €200 can impact the support provided. Child Ombudsman Elina Pekkarinen criticizes the system, labeling it as harsh. She advocates for the removal of the current social assistance framework, suggesting instead the implementation of a more flexible, humane, and less degrading social security system.

Social assistance serves as a last resort, available to those whose income or other benefits fall short of covering basic living costs. The allocation is not discretionary but is calculated based on specific criteria. Pekkarinen argues that the current support system does not encourage employment. For instance, a child’s summer job earnings or a confirmation gift from grandparents could end up being diverted to the family’s grocery bills. She emphasizes the damaging message this sends to children, who learn that their earned money is effectively taken away.

Pekkarinen believes the current model ensures that low-income families receiving social assistance are unable to save. She expresses a hope that children in these families would have something to rely on as they grow independent, stressing that even low-income families should have the opportunity to save for a better future for their children.

Moreover, Pekkarinen notes an increasing number of families dependent on social assistance and is critical of government policies that push more individuals into this system. She calls for a societal approach that aims to minimize reliance on welfare.