Tax and price changes that came into force in 2026 affecting consumers, income taxation and social support include a rise in prices of tobacco, nicotine products, and alcohol, while minor relief is expected in food, fuel and medical costs

The Director General of Finland’s Social Insurance Institution Kela has taken extended medical leave until the end of May 2026 after being diagnosed with a serious illness while on a work trip to Brussels

Over 700 students and staff at the University of Helsinki walked out of classes to protest academic cooperation with Israeli universities; similar demonstrations took place at universities in Tampere, Turku, Kuopio, Jyväskylä, Oulu and Rovaniemi

The Left Alliance has formally supported full legalisation of cannabis, going beyond itsposition of decriminalising personal use and minor possession; new party program supports legalisation of use, sale in state-owned shops, limited personal cultivation

Two forestry companies registered in Sotkamo are under criminal investigation for suspected large-scale human trafficking, aggravated extortion, and illegal immigration for misuse of work-based residence permits and visas issued to 180 foreigners