Social sustainability and wellbeing are at the heart of the City’s activities and are directly related to the basic services provided by Helsinki. The theme is broad and linked in particular to the SDGs related to good health and wellbeing, learning, reduced inequalities and gender equality. By international standards, Helsinki is a prosperous city where basic services related to people’s wellbeing, health and education are at a good level and equally accessible to all. Social sustainability challenges relate in particular to an increase in inequalities and wellbeing disparities, mental wellbeing, excess weight, violence in close relationships and non-discrimination. The years marked by the COVID-19 crisis and Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine have put pressure on social wellbeing and caused concerns about people’s daily lives and livelihoods.
Health and welfare
The promotion of well-being and health is a joint effort by all operators, based on sustainable development, including support and activities to strengthen the resources of various population groups, to improve living conditions and other structural frameworks, and to support equal opportunities for people to manage their health and well-being.
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Learning
Helsinki wants to be the world’s most effective place to learn. The city offers high-quality and attractive early childhood education and basic education services close to the residents. An ever-growing Helsinki requires active measures and investments to ensure open, equal and high-quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for all.
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Non-discrimination and gender equality
Helsinki aims to be a city built on human rights where everyone can be seen and heard and can live and participate on an equal footing without any direct or indirect discrimination. Achieving this goal requires strong commitment and continuous and determined work to promote equality and non-discrimination in the city.
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Reducing inequalities and segregation
In global terms, Helsinki is at a good level in many inequality-related issues. Nevertheless, inequalities and social exclusion are among the most serious problems in Helsinki. They are also persistent and long-lasting problems, although many of the city’s programmes and goals have aimed at reducing them for years.
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Participation
Participation means equal opportunities for participation, citizen involvement in urban planning and participatory decision-making. In global terms, participation opportunities and interaction are at a good level in Helsinki.
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Safety and risk management
Helsinki residents feel that their neighbourhood, the city centre and means of transport are safer than ever. The change has been positive for both women and men, although the experience of insecurity is still much more common for women.
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