Jyty union demands end to public sector cuts in Finnish budget talks

The Jyty labor union has issued demands ahead of the Finnish government’s upcoming budget negotiations, scheduled for early September. The union is calling for an end to severe cuts in public services and personnel, arguing that such measures are short-sighted given the positive economic outlook and three consecutive quarters of growth.

Jyty Chairperson Jonna Voima emphasized that public services are essential for societal functions and economic growth. The union warned that ongoing labor negotiations in welfare areas and municipalities threaten thousands of jobs and could lead to service congestion, increased unemployment, and social exclusion.

With public sector adjustment needs estimated at 8–11 billion euros by 2031, Jyty demands that all adjustment decisions undergo a binding impact assessment. This assessment should cover service availability, equality, workload, and skill requirements to prevent ‘apparent savings’ that merely shift costs to other sectors. Additionally, the union advocates for increased resources for municipal employment services and the restoration of unemployment security protections.