06.11.2025
Northern Ostrobothnia EU Information Point to continue operations in 2026-2030
The new Europe Direct network in Finland will start operating at the beginning of 2026
In January 2026, nine Europe Direct Information Centres will start operating in Finland. Eight of the relays will continue to operate from the previous term of office, including the Europe Direct North Ostrobothnia relay, under the auspices of the Regional Council of Northern Ostrobothnia.
The Europe Direct Centres, part of the European Commission's communication network, are tasked with bringing the European Union closer to its citizens, raising awareness of the EU's activities and promoting participation in EU affairs.
Seven of the information points operate as part of the regional councils. They are located in Kajaani, Kuopio, Lahti, Mikkeli, Oulu, Rovaniemi and Seinäjoki. Hamina's and Kankaanpää's points are hosted by Leader groups. They serve as an easy-to-access point in their region to Europe, where residents can get reliable information about the EU and discuss EU issues.
The role of the Europe Direct Information Centres is to:
- disseminate information on EU policies and actions at local level, thereby increasing their visibility and impact;
- Listen to citizens and convey their views and concerns to the Representation of the European Commission in Finland
- conduct an open dialogue on the impact of the EU on citizens’ daily lives and encourage participation in European democratic processes.
The Europe Direct network was established in 2005. The network is a key part of the European Commission's communication strategy, which includes various EU information and documentation centres. The aim is to bring EU affairs closer to citizens at local and regional level.
They work closely with NGOs, local media, schools, libraries, youth centres, business organisations and other EU contact points. They identify locally relevant and controversial topics and communicate them in a popular and interactive way. The activities are financed annually with the help of the European Commission, which ensures the continuity and effectiveness of the activities.
The new Europe Direct network will give citizens the opportunity to participate, influence and be informed about EU affairs in their region. It strengthens our common European identity and increases our understanding of how EU decisions are reflected in the everyday lives of each and every one of us.
Additional information:
Ismo Ulvila, Head of Information, European Commission Representation in Finland, tel. +358 50 541 1122, ismo.ulvila@ec.europa.eu
Regional Council of Northern Ostrobothnia, Regional Director Jussi Rämet, tel. +358 40 586 3877, jussi.ramet@pohjois-pohjanmaa.fi
Northern Ostrobothnia EU Information Point - Regional Council of Northern Ostrobothnia
